Photo credit: Y. Ivanko / mos.ru / (CC BY 4.0)
All test systems used in Russia can detect coronavirus regardless of the strain, Anna Cherkashina, head of the scientific group of genetic engineering and biotechnology of the Central Research Institute of Epidemiology of Rospotrebnadzor stated, RIA Novosti reports. According to her, the test systems analyze that part of the coronavirus genome that practically does not change.
The scientist explained that it is required to distinguish the "omicron" strain from "delta" strain in order to control the development of the pandemic.
There is no need, Anna Cherkashina added, to test samples from all patients with new test systems. Up to 5-10% of the population of the region is sufficient. With regard to the ''omicron'' strain, Rospotrebnadzor started this work at the end of last year.
So far, the ''delta'' strain is widespread in most countries, but, according to scientists, it may be replaced by ''omicron'' in the near future.
The COVID-19 B1.1.529 strain, called "omicron" was detected in Botswana and South Africa on November, 20. Experts believe that vaccinated and recovered patients can become infected with "omicron." The new strain has already been discovered in many countries, including Russia.
Russkiy Mir
