Scientists in the Middle Eastern country of Cyprus have discovered a new COVID variant. Deltacron, which is a combination of the Delta and Omicron variants is reported by experts to just be a contamination of both, mostly the Delta variant with light strains of Omicron.

25 cases of this new variant have already been identified and collected from people around Cyprus, including some who have been hospitalized, with only 10 of them having strains of Omicron since January 8th. “The variant has a similar genetic background to the Delta variant, as well as some of the mutations from Omicron,” explained Dr. Leondios Kostrikis, head of the laboratory of biotechnology and molecular virology at the University of Cyprus. Most research continues to be done in Cyprus.

It’s unlikely that the Deltacron variant will be as severe as other strains. Cyprus’s Health Minister, Michalis Hadjipandelas stated that the “new variant was not something to worry about at the moment.” Hadjipandelas rather expresses pride towards many of the countries scientists for discovering the variant. Additional findings provided evidence and proof that it’s all “quite clearly contamination.” Kostrikis also believes Omicron is more transmissible than Deltacron.

While scientists are still researching Deltacron, they are focusing their efforts on encouraging the public to get vaccinated and take the same precautions such as mask wearing and social distancing.