"Right now, there are omicron and delta co-infections, and we discovered this strain that is a mix of the two." "Kostrikis stated this in a Friday interview with Sigma TV. The finding was given the nickname "Deltacron." "He noted that this was owing to the detection of omicron-like genetic markers inside the delta genomes.
In all, ten Omicron mutations were discovered in the 25 samples collected in Cyprus. According to the Jerusalem Post, which cited Cyprus Mail, 11 of the samples were from patients who had been hospitalized due to the virus, whereas 14 came from the general public.
According to Dr. Kostrikis, the mutation was more common in hospitalized patients, suggesting a link between the novel variation and hospitalizations.
"We'll see if this strain is more pathological or communicable in the future, or if it will prevail" over delta and omicron, he added. However, he believes that the more infectious omicron variety will also replace this strain.
On Saturday, Michalis Hadjipandelas, Health Minister of Cyprus stated that the new variant was not a cause for concern at this time. The minister was also pleased to have discovered the new variant. The scientific name of the new variety has yet to be announced.
Minister Hadjipandelas said, that “The pioneering study and conclusions of Dr. Kostrikis, make us proud of our experts”. As per the Jerusalem Post, the minister also stated that this research places Cyprus on the global map whenever it comes to health concerns.
