Singapore Variant Can Be India's 3rd Covid Wave, Dangerous For Kids, Warns Kejriwal; Know All About It

The B1617 strain, also known as the double-mutant variant, is affecting children more than adults.

(File Photo/ Getty Images)

New Delhi: Warning Prime Minister Narendra Modi-led government of a new variant of Covid-19 found in Singapore, Delhi Chief Minister Arvind Kejriwal on Tuesday said it can result in India’s third wave and urged the Centre to immediately halt air services with Singapore and prioritize vaccination drive for children.

The Aam Aadmi Party (AAP) chief in a tweet said the new form of virus found in Singapore is being said to be extremely dangerous for children.

“The new form of Corona that came to Singapore is being said to be extremely dangerous for children, in India it may come as a third wave. My appeal to the central government are air services with Singapore to be cancelled with immediate effect and prioritise the options for vaccinating children at the earliest,” he posted on the micro-blogging platform.

What is the Singapore variant?

The Delhi Chief Minister’s concerns come as seven of the 38 community cases in Singapore have reportedly tested “preliminarily positive” for the B1617 variant, which was first detected in India.

The B1617coronavirus variant found in Singapore is said to be more transmissible.

The B1617 strain, also known as the double-mutant variant, is affecting children more than adults. As a result, Singapore is witnessing a surge in the number of Covid-19 cases mainly attacking children.

Taking note of the B1617 strain of the virus, which is said to be more virulent, the task force in Singapore has announced that all schools and colleges will shift to home-based learning from May 19 until the end of the term on May 28.

In view of the symptoms, it has been recommended in Singapore to wear a face mask in public areas besides ensuring to sanitise every item brought from outside at home.

Even in India, there have been several cases related to the Singapore variant majorly found at the country's airport and a large public hospital.