Rappler
WHO: Not enough evidence yet that COVID-19 Lambda variant more infectious
The World Health Organization (WHO) still classifies the Lambda variant of COVID-19 as a variant of interest while more research is being conducted.
Dr. Rabindra Abeyasinghe, WHO Representative to the Philippines, explained that new mutations are initially categorized as variants of interest.
Experts are currently studying the Lambda variant to determine if it is more transmissible, causes severe infections, or can evade vaccines.
The WHO will only upgrade its classification to a 'variant of concern' if sufficient evidence emerges regarding these characteristics.
The Lambda variant, which reportedly emerged in Brazil in June 2021, has been detected in 20 to 30 countries but has not yet shown concerning traits.
As of now, the Lambda variant does not warrant classification as a variant of concern.
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See how different news organizations are covering this story. Below are the original articles from various Philippine news sources that contributed to this summary.
The Philippines has not yet detected the Lambda variant of the coronavirus, according to Department of Health (DOH) Undersecretary Maria Rosario Vergeire.
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The Philippines is closely monitoring the Lambda variant (C.37) of Covid-19, which was first detected in Peru and Latin America.
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