The Noguchi Memorial Institute for Medical Research (NMIMR), University of Ghana, Legon has observed with concern some characteristics of the new delta variant of SARS-CoV-2 detected at the institute’s testing centre since April 2021.
The positive cases have very high viral loads indicated by low cut-off cycle thresholds (CT values) obtained in the real time RT-PCR assay. The CT values for the majority are between 15-20 compared to higher values above 30, seen previously. It has also been observed that the positive individuals are taking longer to clear the virus. This is evident in the number of retests that still test positive.
Sequencing of SARS-CoV-2 done at NMIMR recently has revealed increased circulation of the Delta variant in Ghanaian communities compared to the earlier Alpha variants. The higher viral loads observed in recent cases are attributable to the Delta variant.
Transmission of SARS-CoV-2 is directly linked to how much virus is shed in droplets during
sneezing and coughing, which also determines the spread through, talking, singing and other related activities.
The Delta variant has been reported to spread faster than the other variants and our testing observations confirm that. Some clinical specimen submitted to the Institute have tested positive with high viral load.
Also, 7.34% (840/6538) of the positive cases recorded from asymptomatic persons who visit the walk in centre to test for travel, work-related or school related purposes from 1st June to 22nd July, 2021 have equally high viral load.
With a population of >80% unvaccinated, the country must be concerned that if these apparently healthy carriers transmit the virus to the unvaccinated, we may have a more serious outbreak to deal with as a nation. Some these positive cases have taken the full dose of COVID-19 vaccines.
It is therefore recommended that the Government takes a second look at the state of adherence to COVID-19 preventive protocols and appropriate restrictions.
From: NMIMR COVID-19 Response Team
