India's reported a new variant of coronavirus to be 'of concern', with more than 20 cases detected so far.
The new variant is being called 'Delta Plus', with experts saying it appears to display increased transmissibility.
Indian authorities say the strain in question has been detected in at least three states, with most of the cases in Maharashtra.
Despite the new variant of concern, health officials say the country's COVID-19 infection rate has fallen 90% from its peak.
A major surge of COVID-19 in April and May saw hundreds of thousands of new cases being reported every day in India, with hospitals quickly becoming overwhelmed.
The country also found itself with oxygen supply shortages due to the demand.
The original Delta variant was first identified in India, and has since been detected around the world.
UK officials have said the strain in question has become the dominant one there, prompting Boris Johnson's government to postpone the final stage of reopening by one month.
Here, officials said there has been a "concerning increases" in cases of the Delta variant detected over the last week.
It's led to concerns the next stage of reopening could be delayed - although Tánaiste Leo Varadkar yesterday said plans for July 5th (including the return of indoor dining) are "still on track".
