Many variants of the coronavirus are circulating around the world, but scientists are largely concerned about three
There are many circulating around the world, but health experts rely heavily on the appearance of three.
As a virus affects humans, it can suppress the way it copies itself. Some snails can damage a virus, causing it to die. Others can offer benefit and help spread.
“Not all mutations are created equal,” said Dr. Mary Petrone, who studies infectious diseases at Yale University. “The virus is going to be lucky now and then.”
Monitoring different changes is important because they can make vaccines and treatments less effective, or change the way they infect people.
An early mutation in the pandemic was encouraging the spread of the virus worldwide, but there have been no significant changes since then – until recently, said Ohio State University biologist Daniel Jones.
One of the three major volatile changes observed was discovered in the United Kingdom at the end of last year and has been detected in dozens of countries since then. Health officials initially said it did not appear to be causing a more serious disease, but some more recent information suggests it could – that’s still unknown at this time. It appears to be spreading more easily, which could lead to more hospitalizations and deaths.
The variant could gain the upper hand in the U.S. by March, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
Other variants first discovered in South Africa and Brazil are also appearing more contagious, experts say.
Data to date suggest that routine vaccines should protect against these variables, although there are concerns that their effectiveness may be slightly reduced. There is little evidence that some antibody treatments may be as effective against some modifications.
There are ways to change vaccines and treatments to maintain their effectiveness, said Dr. Anthony Fauci, the U.S. ‘s leading infectious disease expert.
The appearance of variables is associated with persistent strains as diseases allow viruses to circulate and spread. Another reason experts stress the importance of mask wear and social distance.
“The fewer people who carry the virus, the less likely they are to spread,” said Jones.
———
The AP answers questions about the coronavirus in this series. Submit them at: [email protected].
Previously Read Viral Questions:
Can COVID-19 vaccines be mixed and matched?
Should I get the COVID-19 vaccine if I have the virus?
If I have already had the coronavirus, can I get it again?