Scientists in South Africa have detected a new Covid-19 variant identified as B.1.1.529 having a large number of mutations, which might be responsible for the increasing number of infections. Tulio de Oliveira, from the Network for Genomic Surveillance in South Africa who has been tracking the delta variant infections in South Africa said that the new variant has a constellation of new mutations including more than 30 to the spike protein which affects the transmissibility and spread of the new variant. 

The variant has also been detected in Botswana and Hong Kong which has spread through travellers from South Africa. The scientists said that the new variant B.1.1.529 has been detected in at least 50 confirmed cases of the COVID-19 in South Africa and 90% of new cases in Gauteng could be B.1.1.529. This new variant is capable of destroying the body’s immune response, making the human body more susceptible to viral infections and spreading faster. The new variant may be the reason behind Europe becoming a global epicentre. Further, he showed concern stating the existing vaccines may not be so effective against the new variant.

Source: ET Healthworld