Study shows risk of new coronavirus variants emerging during chronic infection
Study shows risk of new coronavirus variants emerging during chronic infection (Peter Byrne/PA)
Coronavirus mutations similar to those in the UK variant could arise in cases of chronic infection, where treatment over an extended period can provide the virus multiple opportunities to evolve, scientists say.
A team led by University of Cambridge researchers observed the virus mutating in the case of an immunocompromised patient treated with convalescent plasma.
They saw the emergence of a key mutation, also seen in the new variant, that led to the rapid spread of the virus before the country was forced into lockdown in January.