Graphic shows variations in B.1.1.529 virus mutation.
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GEZONDHEID

Sterk gemuteerde coronavirusvariant

By Duncan Mil

November 26, 2021 - A new coronavirus variant found in South Africa has 50 mutations, including 30 changes to the spike protein that infects human host cells and is the focus of most Covid vaccines.

With around 100 cases confirmed in South Africa, some scientists attribute the variant to the country’s rapid rise in cases. Covid infections surged from 868 on Tuesday (November 23) to 2,465 yesterday.

Hong Kong has reported two cases among travellers from southern Africa. Because the two patients were in separate rooms, there is concern this variant is airborne.

The United Kingdom, Singapore, and Israel have announced temporary bans on flights from South Africa and Botswana, Eswatini, Lesotho, Mozambique, Namibia, and Zimbabwe.

In a media briefing, Professor Tulio de Oliveira, Director of South Africa’s Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation, said there were 50 mutations overall. And more than 30 on the spike protein, which is the target of most existing vaccines.

In addition, the tip of the spike -- the receptor-binding domain (RBD), which binds with human host cells -- has ten mutations. The Delta variant that swept the world has just two RBD mutations.

The RBD is a vital part of a virus located on its spike. It allows it to dock to body receptors to gain entry into cells and lead to infection.

The high number of mutations could make it harder for antibodies to recognise the virus, make it more resistant to vaccines, increase transmissibility and lead to more severe symptoms.

Sources
PUBLISHED: 29/11/2021; STORY: Graphic News
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