The Lambda variant has spread to 28 [!] countries but it is not considered a ["]variant of concern["]. Here's what we know so far.

The Lambda variant was first detected in Peru last December [?]. It is a variation of the novel coronavirus [SARS-CoV-2] that was first recorded in the country in August [?] 2020.

The exact origins of the Lambda variant, which was previously known as the Andean strain, remain unclear, but scientists say it first EMERGED in South America.

All viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, change over time. Most changes have little to no impact on the virus' properties. However, some changes may affect the virus's properties, such as how easily it spreads, the associated disease severity, or the performance of vaccines, therapeutic medicines, diagnostic tools, or other public health and social measures.