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Incorrect nomenclature of the Coronavirus B.1.617 variant

Posted on: May 25, 2021 | Back | Print

Embassy of India

Dublin

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 Dt. 25 May 2021


The term "Indian variant" is being used indiscriminately, particularly in the media, to describe the B.1.617 variant of Corona virus observed in India.

This is to clarify that the World Health Organization (WHO) has not associated the term "Indian Variant" with the B.1.617 variant of the corona virus in its 32 page document classifying B.1.617 as a variant of global concern. In fact, the word "Indian" has not been used in the report on the matter. This has also been clarified by the Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare through a press release at https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1717876

It is strongly advised that the B.1.617 variant of the Corona virus not be named, referred to or implied as the "Indian variant". The matter has also been taken up appropriately with the local media.