South African researchers earlier this week identified what is now being described as the ‘worst ever’ Coronavirus variant to date, sparking fears that it could cause more damage than any other known strain of the viral infection.
Known as ‘B.1.1.529,’ South Africa’s Network for Genomic Surveillance (NGS) identified the new variant through genomic sequencing of hundreds of samples taken from all over the country.
According to details, the NGS has detected more than 50 mutations in the B.1.1.529 strain, of which 30 have been observed on the virus’ spike protein, the part of the virus that attaches to the cells to spread in the body and that all COVID-19 vaccines target to neutralize the virus.
Since its spike protein is significantly different from the one in the original Coronavirus strain that all COVID-19 vaccines are based on, B.1.1.529 strain could easily evade the immunity offered by all existing Coronavirus vaccines.
Some of the dangerous mutations observed in the B.1.1.529 variant include P681H, N679K, N501Y, P681H, and D614G. These mutations are known to increase the transmissibility of the virus and its ability to evade the protection given by existing vaccines.
