COVID-19: Mutations & Variants

COVID Mutations Across the Globe
By Amelia Fort

COVID-19 has rampaged the globe and caused disturbances in our lives. Now that we have the vaccine, dealing with the coronavirus should be significantly easier, but now COVID-19 has mutated.

The coronavirus is not a new disease and has been mutating and changing as time goes on. However, COVID-19 has proven to be significantly worse than the ones prior and although we have a vaccine, thousands of people die per day due to causes related to the coronavirus. So, with new variants showing up all across the world, that means tough times can be coming.

The U.K. Variant
The coronavirus variant found in the U.K. has mutated many times, and now it spreads faster and much more easily, which can be devastating because more people will catch it and unfortunately die from it. On the other hand, there has been no proof showing that the new variant is more fatal or severe, and the variant has a high possibility of not affecting the vaccine efficacy rates. Even though the variant was originally found in the U.K. in September, 2020, the mutated variant has been found in countries such as the U.S., Canada, and many other countries.

The South Africa Variant
A new variant has emerged in Nelson Mandela Bay, South Africa, too. This variant first appeared in October, 2020. Once again, there is no evidence supporting the idea that this variant could have a higher risk of death, could cause more severe cases of the coronavirus, or even affect the vaccine efficacy. Although, it is still necessary to monitor the progress of the variant. At the same time, cases of the South African variant have been reported outside of South Africa, in countries like Zambia.

Other Variants
All over the world, different types of the coronavirus are popping up everywhere. There are many other supposed variants that have yet to be classified, such as one that emerged in the United States. More research is needed to better understand the effects of all the new variants.

To fight against the flood of new strains of the coronavirus, always practice proper hygiene and stay up to date with the latest news concerning COVID-19. Stay safe!