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London, United Kingdom) – The mutation of Coronavirus that is spreading in Britain creates apprehension within the scientific community and beyond: the new variant of Sars-CoV-2, much more contagious than those known so far, would be at the base of the drastic increase of positives in the country and could jeopardize the utility of vaccine. From the tests carried out, in fact, it appears that the mutation appears in 59% of the infections registered in the east of England, with a peak of 62% in London.
Coronavirus, variant B.1.1.7
The group of Ralph baric at the University of North Carolina, one of the leading experts on coronavirus, analyzed the D614G mutation, responsible for Second wave. The researchers highlighted how new variants of the virus could continually emerge, thereby evading the antibodies generated by the virus. vaccine. The researchers claim that “It is important to immediately identify the emergence of new variants, especially when herd immunity or other active human interventions will alter the selective pressures on the virus genome.“. The new strain appeared in the United Kingdom, christened B.1.1.7, was observed for the first time in Kent on September 20, multiplying its appearances since then, which now amount to 1,623 samples (519 in London, 555 in Kent, 545 in the rest of the country and 4 abroad).
“Genetic changes in spike protein”
“We noticed a surprisingly large number of genetic changes, especially in the spike protein. (the one against whom he vaccine, ed). Three of these mutations have potential biological effects“Researchers say in reference to the ability to infect and cause serious symptoms. Also, the N501Y variant could “increase affinity with the Ace receptor”, Facilitating the entry of the Coronavirus into our cells.
“The new variant has been in circulation since September”
The heads of the health authorities of Great Britain indicate that according to some studies the new variant of the Coronavirus that appeared in the country was probably present in London or Kent already in mid-September. In mid-November, around 28% of cases in London were due to the new variant, and on December 9 the percentage was much higher. “When the virus changes its attack method, we must change our defense method“The British Prime Minister Boris johnson He thus responded to the question posed by a BBC journalist about the change in strategy in the face of the Covid-19 pandemic, just three days after saying thatcancel christmas” would have been “inhuman“Johnson told himself.”sorry bitterly“but added that”when the facts change you have to change your focus“, citing the speed of transmission of the new virus strain.
“It could also be present abroad”
The new variant of the Coronavirus found in the United Kingdom “could also be present abroad“The British government’s scientific adviser underlined this Patrick Vallance. “Viruses are constantly mutating, there are many mutations in the world. this is a particular constellation of changes that we consider important – has explained –. We believe that it could be present in other countries, but here there is a concentration. It may have originated here, we don’t know for sure“.
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