16/08/2021
Here we go. One more variant - Lambda.
I've been tracking VOCs and VOIs since the start of the pandemic, and for me, the scariest variant is still Delta.
Lambda is a VOI - variant of interest. That means it has some scary mutations, and may be more vaccine resistant. It was first described in Peru and is prevalent in South America.
The difference between a VOI and a VOC (Variant of Concern) is that a VOC is proven to be more transmissible and/or vaccine resistant, while a VOI can go either way. There are only 4 VOCs at this time: Alpha (UK, B.1.1.7), Beta (South Africa, B.1.351), Gamma (Brazil, P.1) and Delta (India, B.1.617.2).
Remember the P.3/Theta variant first described in the Philippines? It USED to be a VOI. Not anymore, it's been downgraded. Turns out scary mutations don't necessarily translate to worse outcomes. Lambda can either end up as a VOC, or get downgraded as well - only time will tell. Oh, and the US CDC does NOT consider Lambda a VOI at this time.
Lambda has some lab data showing it might be less susceptible to vaccines, but so does Delta and Beta. In Brazil where Gamma, Delta and Lambda coexist, Lambda isn't making much headway. The other good thing is that Chinese vaccines clearly work against Lambda, since these were used successfully in Chile and Peru where there is a good amount of Lambda.
So, Lambda is scary, but Delta is scarier. What you do to prevent Delta will work for Lambda. Get vaccinated, wear you mask and the rest of your armor, disinfect your homes, cars and workplace with Kleenbac! Stay safe kababayans! ππ