Indian coronavirus variant B.1.617 has so far been identified in 44 countries, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports Wednesday.

 

The most significant number of infections with the variant outside India has been observed in Great Britain, according to the analysis of more than 4,500 samples.

The WHO previously announced that the mutation, which appears to be more contagious, is seen as a global problem. The variant may also be slightly more resistant to vaccines.

Two weeks ago, the WHO warned against concluding too quickly. The variant is now on the same list as the virus species discovered in Great Britain, Brazil and South Africa. This is initially because it seems to spread faster.

The number of infections in India has risen rapidly in recent weeks.