The version, which has become known locally as Delta Plus, is described by scientists as a sub-lineage of the highly contagious Delta variant that has spread rapidly through India, Britain, the United States and other countries. Reports suggest that cases of Delta Plus have been found in nearly a dozen countries, including the United States. In India, Delta Plus was first detected in April in the western state of Maharashtra. The authorities in India this week declared it a new “variant of concern” in the country after finding more than 40 cases across three states: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Kerala. The Indian Health Ministry said this week that Delta Plus had showed increased transmissibility.

Source: New York Times June 25, 2021 13:06 UTC