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Dublin Live
Dublin Live
National
Thomas Telford

Lambda Covid variant symptoms: Warning signs to look out for as strain discovered in 27 countries

The World Health Organisation has flagged the latest variant of Covid-19, 'Lambda' as it has now been found in at least 27 countries across the globe.

Lambda first appeared in South America in August last year and is now accounting for more and more cases and hospitalisations across the continent.

Over the last couple of months, the Lambda variant has accounted for 82% of new infections in Peru.

One early study, which has yet to be peer-reviewed, has claimed that the variant has "increased infectivity and immune escape."

It has also been found in Europe but they are unsure what the effect will be considering the Delta variant is dominating cases across the entire continent.

It's currently listed as a 'variant of interest' instead of a 'variant of concern' by the WHO.

The main symptoms of this new variant are similar to previous variants and include continuous cough, high temperature and a change or loss to your smell or taste.

Public Health England has also confirmed that cases of the Lambda variant have been discovered in their country.

It has recognised that the variant may have "a potential increased transmissibility or possible increased resistance to neutralizing antibodies".

All the while this is developing, the Delta variant continues to dominate across Europe. It now accounts for over 70% of new cases reported in Ireland.

Vaccine efficacy against the Delta variant has also dipped slightly. However, there was good news in regard to the efficacy of the J&J vaccine against the Delta variant.

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