WHO: experts investigate new coronavirus strain found in South Africa .1.1.529, recently discovered in Botswana, South Africa and Hong Kong. A representative of the organization told Lenta.ru about this.
The WHO noted that at the moment scientists have managed to collect about 100 genetic sequences of the virus of this strain. Preliminary analysis revealed a large number of mutations to be studied.
Scientists from South Africa and experts from the WHO Working Group on the Evolution of Viruses (TAG-VE) are currently investigating this type of virus. The organization will hold a meeting to agree on a schedule of upcoming studies and decide whether the new strain will be recognized as a virus of concern.
On November 24, it became known that ten people had been infected with B.1.1.529 in South Africa, Botswana and Hong Kong. British scientists have suggested that the new strain will be better at evading antibodies than the delta variant. The many mutations in B.1.1.529 suggest that the virus originated in a patient with a weakened immune system – a patient with HIV or AIDS. It is believed to be the most dangerous infection.