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Explained: When was IHU variant first discovered and its spread

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Explained: When was IHU variant first discovered and its spread

In the spread of Omicron coronavirus variants, the discovery of a new strain that emerged in France has attracted the attention of experts from all over the world. It was named “IHU”, which caused concerns about a new wave of infections.

This variant has 46 mutations and 37 deletions in its genetic code, which is more than Omicron. Many of these affect the spike protein.

This variant is a sub-family of B.1.640, and its discovery was announced by researchers at Méditerranée Infection in Marseille, which is part of the French Hospital University (IHU, or University Hospital Research Institute)-hence the name. It has been classified as B.1.640.2. When was IHU first discovered?

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According to Forbes, the first known case of a variant of IHU was discovered in mid-November 2021. This predates Omicron’s official discovery (November 24).

The new variant was discovered in a French man returning from Cameroon, Africa (Omicron was also found on the continent). He began to develop respiratory symptoms and was tested for Covid-19. The sample returned positive and there is a B.1.640.2 variant.

Read also | 5 great things about IHU variants

Since then, 11 more cases have been reported in the same geographic area in southwestern France.

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More information on the B.1.640 pedigree

The pedigree is not new. According to data from Exposure.info, an open source database of Covid-19 resources and epidemiological data, B.1.640 was first detected on January 1, 2021. It said that so far, 400 infections related to this lineage have been identified.

The outbreak information further reported that B.1.640 cases were detected in as many as 19 countries/regions, including one from India. The Indian case was detected from 89,763 sequences reported in the global database.

France (287) reported the most cases of the B.1.640 variant, followed by Congo (39), Germany (17) and the United Kingdom (16).

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Do IHU variants spread faster?

So far, only a dozen cases have been reported in France. No other countries have found any new cases of new variants. It is not clear whether B.1.640.2 is stronger or spread faster than other previously known coronavirus strains.

This is why the World Health Organization (WHO) has not yet considered this variant of IHU as a variant of interest, a variant of interest, or even a variant under investigation.

Based on a preprinted paper published on MedRxiv, it is too early to speculate on the virological, epidemiological or clinical characteristics of this variant of IHU.

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Complete News Source : Hindustan Times

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

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US vice president JD Vance, wife Usha and kids visit Jaipur’s iconic Amber Fort | Pics

US Vice President JD Vance, his wife Usha Vance, and their children visited the historical Amer Fort in Jaipur on April 22, 2025. The Vance family received a warm welcome at the Fort, where they were greeted with a traditional Rajasthani dance performance and elegantly decorated elephants. Second Lady Usha Vance, the wife of US vice president JD Vance, carries her daughter Mirabel as they watch a cultural performance at the Amber Fort in Jaipur.

Rajasthan CM Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer Fort in Jaipur. The Vance family will depart for the US early Thursday morning. In related news, JD Vance and wife Usha attended Good Friday service at St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City. Vance also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra on April 23, 2025. Vance said that “good progress.

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In other news, Pope Francis’ funeral is set to start on Wednesday, and the J&K tourist hub has been completely shut today. On 4/20, celebrations across the US highlight cannabis culture and calls for legalization had been made towards a trade deal with India after meeting with “tough negotiator” Prime Minister Narendra Modi in New Delhi. The Vance family visited.

On April 22, 2025, US Vice President JD Vance, accompanied by his wife Usha Vance, and their three children, visited Jaipur’s historic Amber Fort. The family received a warm welcome, highlighted by traditional Rajasthani folk performances and a red carpet reception. As they entered the fort’s main courtyard, Jaleb Chowk, they were greeted by two elegantly decorated elephants named Chanda and Mala, raising their trunks in greeting. ​

During their visit, the Vances were joined by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who guided them through the fort’s rich history and architectural marvels. The family also enjoyed cultural performances featuring traditional dances such as Kacchi Ghodi, Ghoomar, and Kalbeliya, offering a glimpse into the vibrant.

Usha Vance, dressed in a chic white shirt and patterned skirt, explored the fort alongside her family and dignitaries, embracing the cultural experience culture of Rajasthan This visit was part of Vice President Vance’s four-day official trip to India, aimed at strengthening bilateral relations between the United States and India. The Vance family departed for Washington.

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Bhajanlal Sharma welcomed the Vance family as they visited the historic Amer from Jaipur on April 24, concluding their cultural tour of India Upon their arrival at Amber Fort, the Vance family was greeted with traditional Rajasthani hospitality. Two elegantly decorated elephants, Chanda and Pushpa, adorned with silver ornaments, were stationed at the entrance welcome.

The family was also treated to a cultural performance featuring folk artists dressed in traditional Rajputi and Kalbelia attire, accompanied by musicians playing regional instruments. The vibrant rangolis and the overall festive atmosphere highlighted the rich cultural tapestry of Rajasthan The fort’s impressive courtyards and majestic structures.

Exploring the Fort’s Historical Significance

During their tour of Amber Fort, the Vance family explored various architectural marvels, including the Sheesh Mahal (Mirror Palace), known for its intricate mirror work and stunning design. They were accompanied by Rajasthan Chief Minister Bhajanlal Sharma and Deputy Chief Minister Diya Kumari, who provided insights into the fort’s history and significance.​

Engaging with Local Culture

Throughout their visit, Vice President Vance demonstrated a keen interest in engaging with The Vance family’s visit to Amber Fort was part local culture. He interacted with the folk artists and expressed appreciation for the traditional performances, reflecting a genuine curiosity and respect for India’s diverse cultural heritage.​

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