New Serious COVID-19 Mutation Detected in S. Africa

Scientists in South Africa started studying a newly identified COVID-19 mutation, describing it as a serious concerning variant, that may worsen the pandemic situation in the state, RT reported on Thursday.

Named as B.1.1529, the new variant carries a very different mutation from the previously discovered strains from Alpha to Mu, according to Professor Tulio de Oliveria. Until now, there is no Greek or Latin letter assigned to the new variant.

Moreover, South African Health Minister Joe Phaahla told in a news briefing: “Here is a mutation variant of serious concern.

He added: “We were hopeful that we might have a longer break in between waves -- possibly that it would hold off to late December or even next year January.”

In the same context, authorities found almost 100 cases linked to the new mutation in the country, that's why World Health Organization officials set a meeting to discuss and evaluate the danger of the new strain that could be emerged globally.

In addition, the new variant was detected in Botswana, Bloomberg reported.