Husna, Amity University Kolkata
Just as the world was waiting with hope for the vaccine to start off a healthier 2021, UK has cautioned to take necessary precautionary measures against a new contagious COVID-19 mutant.
Scientists have stated that all viruses mutate as it’s in their nature to mutate, as the human body gets more proficient at identifying and fighting it, the virus is anticipated to fight back by trying to escape the body’s immune system.
Scientists have noted two distinct sets of mutations in the SARS-CoV-2 virus at the beginning of the pandemic, the H69/V70 deletion, and the D614G COVID-19 mutant. Recently, the new variant found in the U.K. is known as VUI – 202012/01 which is 70% more transmissible and infectious. Its mutations have occurred on the genetic material that controls the spike protein, which helps COVID and other similar viruses to bind to the human cell and infect it. So, the vaccines seek to target and weaken this ability of the virus.
Although there’s no evidence to date that this strain can cause a more intense illness or lead to a higher fatality rate but it’s faster transmission means more cases leading to a higher hospitalization rate. Moreover, there is no proof so far that the mutations can reduce the vaccine’s effectiveness.
Simon Clarke, an associate professor in cellular microbiology at the University of Reading, has stated that eventually, the covid-19 vaccine could require an updated version each year just like the flu-shot.
Also read: Moderna’s mRNA–1273 granted emergency use authorization by FDA
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