A coronavirus variant first discovered in India has now spread to more than 80 countries, according to the World Health Organization.
The ever-evolving delta variant, considered more contagious than all other known strains of the virus, now makes up 10% of all new cases in the U.S. — up from 6% last week, CNBC reported.
The delta variant has spread rapidly through the United Kingdom, currently accounting for 60% of its new coronavirus cases, CNBC reported.
WHO officials said Wednesday more research is needed on reports that the variant is also more virulent.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention designated the delta variant as a variant of concern in the U.S. on Tuesday, CNBC reported. The WHO labeled the delta variant the same way in early May.