Viruses are known for their ability to mutate, a concept even high school biology students understand. However, many still struggle to accept this scientific fact. COVID-19, being a virus, is no exception to this rule. Right now, the Delta variant, also called B.1.617.2, which was first identified in India, is causing significant concern due to its high transmissibility and the possibility that current vaccines may be less effective against it.
Now, a new variant, Lambda, has emerged. This variant was first identified in Peru in August 2020 and gained the designation of “variant of interest” from the WHO as of June 14. Lambda now represents 81% of COVID-19 cases in Peru and 31% in Chile, having been detected in 29 countries. This raises a question for many Americans: Should we panic about Lambda like we did with Delta?
Comparing Delta and Lambda
In late May, Delta was responsible for just 3% of COVID cases in the U.S.; now, that figure has surged to around 58%. This rapid spread is alarming enough for the CDC to label Delta a “variant of concern.” In one instance, an outdoor wedding in Texas required proof of vaccination, yet Delta still managed to infect attendees, including those who had received the Pfizer and Moderna vaccines.
Lambda, however, currently makes up only about 1% of cases in the U.S. The WHO has categorized it as a “variant of interest,” indicating potential concern but without a definitive cause for alarm as of now. While Lambda has shown signs of significant community transmission in South America, its impact in the U.S. remains minimal.
Understanding the Spike Proteins
It’s essential to remember that viruses mutate often, and the nature of these mutations can raise concerns. A significant concern with COVID-19 mutations is the spike protein. The Pfizer and Moderna vaccines utilize mRNA technology that instructs our cells to produce a harmless part of the virus, allowing our immune system to recognize and combat it without direct exposure.
For Delta, mutations in the spike protein raise the alarm because they may lead to increased transmissibility and reduced vaccine efficacy. Lambda has seven mutations in its spike protein, a few deemed “unusual,” but experts caution against jumping to conclusions.
Should We Panic?
No, not at this stage. Microbiologist Dr. Alex Torres from the University of California states that while Lambda’s emergence has generated interest, it doesn’t necessarily warrant greater concern than what we’ve seen with Delta. Current evidence suggests that while vaccines may produce fewer antibodies in response to Lambda, they still remain effective against it. However, vaccines like Sinovac and Sinopharm, widely used in South America, may not be as effective against Lambda or Delta.
So is it time for Americans to panic about Lambda? The short answer is no. For now, Delta remains the primary concern.
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Summary:
The emergence of the Lambda COVID variant raises questions about its significance compared to the Delta variant. While Lambda has been labeled a “variant of interest,” its impact in the U.S. is minimal, and experts suggest not to panic. The Delta variant remains the primary concern due to its rapid spread and effects on vaccine efficacy.