What are coronavirus mutations?
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Coronavirus mutations
Recently, it was announced that a newly-discovered mutation of the COVID-19 virus could be about 70% more infectious.
This coronavirus mutation (called B.1.1.7 or VUI-202012/01) was discovered in the UK and many countries have currently stopped travel from there. A similar but unrelated strain (type) has also emerged in South Africa.
So, what is a mutation?
It is a change in the basic (genetic) structure of a living or developing thing. All viruses naturally mutate. This is why vaccines need to be frequently updated.
The COVID-19 virus (Sars-CoV-2) is also mutating as time goes by. However, most of the time, mutations don’t really affect how a virus behaves.
Then, why is the news about coronavirus mutations important?
Sometimes, a mutation can positively change the virus’ ability to survive and multiply. This makes the virus stronger.
Both the UK and South Africa COVID-19 virus strains have mutations in the gene that is present in the spike protein.
What are spike proteins?
Spike proteins are sharp bumps that rise from the surface of the virus’ outer envelope. The virus uses this protein to stick to and enter human cells. Vaccines are used to weaken this ability.
14 coronavirus mutations have been detected in the UK strain of the COVID-19 virus. Some of them can help the virus spread faster. Scientists are now hurrying to find out more about them.
However, not to worry – scientists believe that the COVID-19 vaccine will still be effective against them.
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