A new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus appears to be responsible for nearly half of the new infections reported in the Brazilian Amazonian city of Manaus. This has increased concerns about a greater risk of spread, cautioned a researcher.

Researchers led by immunologist Ester Sabino obtained genomic data from COVID-19 tests in Manaus. It was noted that 42% of the confirmed cases were caused by the new variant of the virus, which has mutations similar to the British and South African variants. Sabino stated, “That was the frequency that appeared in our December data. We are finishing January now and it is increasing.” She added that the new Brazilian variant was likely to be more transmissible compared to the current dominant strain… (Reuters, January 23, 2021)