What we know so far is variant B1.617 is definitely more transmissible, says Soumya Swaminathan

As per our current knowledge, vaccines that are available in India are still highly effective against the new strain, says WHO Chief Scientist

Among the key voices of the World Health Organisation, Dr. Soumya Swaminathan’s clarity of thought, articulation and deep awareness of the Indian context have set her in the centre of the pandemic maelstrom as a reliable voice. In an online interview to The Hindu, she provides detailed responses to a range of topics that are simmering, resolves some doubts, and advocates strategies to adopt gainfully. Investments in health care are crucial, she says, because it is now clear that there is nothing without health, and without sufficient physical and mental well being, it would be impossible to take the path to recovery as well. Excerpts: Yes, I think what we know so far is , one and a half to two times more than the original strain. In fact, it’s even more transmissible than the B 117, which was identified in the U.K., and which had at one point become the predominant strain in India. But it’s now being replaced by the B 1.617. Also read: