[ad_1]
Scientists are quick to answer three crucial questions: whether the new strain is being transmitted more easily as suspected; if it makes people sick and worsens the prognosis of those who contract it; and if vaccines would be effective against him.
When Health Secretary Matt Hancock first mentioned the existence of the mutation early last week, much of the reaction from scientists was skeptical.
However, this has changed markedly in the last 24 hours and several leading scientists say it represents a serious challenge for managing the epidemic.
“The new strain of Covid-19 is concerning and a real cause for concern and additional caution,” said Sir Jeremy Farrar, Director of the Wellcome Trust and SAGE member on Twitter. “Research is being done to understand more, but acting urgently now is critical. There is no part of the UK or globally that you shouldn’t worry about. As in many countries, the situation is fragile ”.
Professor Chris Whitty, England’s chief medical officer, said “preliminary” data pointed to the new strain spreading more rapidly.
“We have alerted the World Health Organization and we continue to analyze the available data to improve our understanding,” he said.
“There is no current evidence to suggest that the new strain causes a higher mortality rate or affects vaccines and treatments, although work is urgently underway to confirm this.
“Given this latest development, it is now more vital than ever that the public continue to take action in their area to reduce transmission.”
[ad_2]
