A “mutation of concern” has been detected in the UK variant of coronavirus, which scientists have described as “a worrying development”. This mutation, known as E484K, is already present in both South African and Brazilian coronavirus variants and experts believe it could have an impact on the effectiveness of some Covid-19 vaccines. Laboratory studies have shown that antibodies are less able to bind to a part of the virus known as the spike protein, in order to stop it from unlocking human cells to gain entry. It was previously thought this mutation was not present in the UK variant.
This mutation, known as E484K, is already present in both South African and Brazilian coronavirus variants. Experts believe it could have an impact on the effectiveness of some Covid-19 vaccines. Laboratory studies have shown that antibodies – which are produced by the body to counteract infection – are less able to bind to a part of the virus known as the spike protein, in order to stop it from unlocking human cells to gain entry. It was previously thought this mutation was not present in the UK variant, also known as B.1.1.7. But a recent report published by Public Health England said gene sequencing has shown that the E484K mutation has occurred spontaneously in a handful of cases (11 out of 214,159 samples) of the UK variant.
Where is the new Covid strain? Full list of countries mutant variant has been detected
Terri-Ann Williams, Digital Health Reporter
22 Dec 2020, 10:45
Updated: 22 Dec 2020, 13:20
THIS map shows the countries where the new mutant strain of coronavirus has been detected so far.
The Covid variant, named VUI 2020/01 has spread to almost all corners of the UK and has now been detected as far away as Australia.
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The new mutation was first found in the UK and has now spread across the worldCredit: Rex Features
It s thought to be up to 70 per cent more infectious than the original - but some experts have said there s not enough evidence to back that figure up.
Tier 4 areas map: Full list of places under Boxing Day lockdown revealed
Updated: 24 Dec 2020, 8:20
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MILLIONS of Britons will wake up in Tier 4 on Boxing Day morning to control the spread of the new coronavirus mutation.
The Health Secretary announced this afternoon more of the east and south east of England will enter the toughest restrictions, which bans Christmas Day bubbles.
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The full list of places moving up a Tier
Moving into Tier 4:
Tier 2 - 3
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Under the Tier 4 rules - which were only created at the weekend - people cannot stay overnight at someone elses house, mix with other households, or travel outside their area.