About 40 cases of the Delta Plus variant of the novel coronavirus have been identified in India. “As of now among the samples found in India, Delta plus variant has been observed majorly in Maharashtra, Kerala, and Madhya Pradesh, with around 40 cases identified so far and no significant increase in generality,” the ministry said in its statement.

There are 21 cases in Maharashtra, 6 in Madhya Pradesh, 3 in Kerala, 3 in Tamil Nadu, 2 in Karnataka, and one in Punjab, Andhra Pradesh, and Jammu, according to the media. Delta Plus cases, still low in numbers, are increasing as large parts of India end strict lockdowns and restrictions, with Covid cases on the decrease after a fierce second wave trapped the nation’s health infrastructure in April-May.

INSACOG (Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomic Consortia), a company of 28 labs tasked with genome sequencing of the virus causing Covid-19, says properties of the Delta Plus are still being investigated. It is characterized by a mutation in the spike protein, which helps the virus increase into human cells.

“Currently, the number of such Delta plus variants in India are only a few but the detection in various states during the past two months indicate that it is already present in some states, and states may need to increase their public health response by focusing on surveillance, more testing, quick contact-tracing, and priority vaccination,” it says.