![Pakistan detected the Indian variant of the coronavirus which is a dual mutant. This is a result of the recent surge of COVID-19 in India [Image via Reuters]](https://southasiatimes.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/2021-06-03T233722Z_652666164_RC21TN971TWM_RTRMADP_3_HEALTH-CORONAVIRUS-INDIA-WITNESS-1.webp)
Pakistan detected the Indian variant of the coronavirus which is a dual mutant. Pakistani authorities confirmed the case on Friday.
Additionally, in a statement, Mr Sajid shah, Spokesperson of Pakistan’s Ministry of Health said that an Indian variant case was detected after the complete collection of samples from SARS CoV-2. Earlier in May, the health officials collected these samples.
Furthermore, the findings of the sequencing confirmed that B.1.351 [South African variation] cases were detected and one case of B.1.617 [Indian variant] had been detected. This is the first case of the latter strain in the country.
Moreover, according to the authorities, the new Indian form is a result of the recent surge of COVID-19 in India. Pakistan has already restricted Indian land and air travel by expressing fears about the proliferation of the newest variation of coronavirus.
B.1.617 Variant is Trouble for the South Asian Health Sector
The two competitors of the South Asian nuclear states had been facing a catastrophic COVID-19 wave. Pakistan had seen a comparably better condition, in comparison to India. India is facing a tremendous task in arranging hospital beds and oxygen supplies.
Unfortunately, Pakistan has reported the first Indian variant, which has recently created a catastrophe in India. The Health System of India bows down to COVID-19. If this (Indian Variant) makes its foots strong in Pakistan, it could be perilous for Pakistan and its Health System. On an honest account, the health system of Pakistan in general and any other country in South Asia; can’t afford the proliferation of this Variant. This is due to the bad conditions of their overall health sector. Lastly, Pakistan and all other states in the South Asian region should take the required measures to halt the spread of Indian Variant.
In light of the concerning development of the Indian variant reaching Pakistan, it becomes crucial for the nation, as well as its South Asian counterparts, to implement stringent measures to contain its spread. The fragile state of the health systems in this region necessitates proactive steps to prevent potential devastation. By prioritizing cooperation and swift action, Pakistan and its neighboring countries can strive to mitigate the impact of the Indian variant and protect their populations.
