The United Kingdom has labeled AY.4.2 as a “variant under investigation.”
The reason? Evidence shows it’s even more transmissible than the Delta Variant, which it derives from.
The virus has become more and more common in recent months among those infected with COVID-19 in the UK, and it may even replace Delta.
While it’s concerning, there is not evidence to show it’s more severe or evades vaccines.
It’s still a rarity within the U.S. and under 10 cases have been reported as of Wednesday last week.
Related: Delta plus variant update: Are restrictions possible as U.K. battles new COVID strain? Americans say they won’t lockdown again
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