Viruses multiply by copying themselves over and over, but these copies can alter slightly as they go along – becoming a new variant.
Most of the time, these variants don’t alter much about the way the virus works. However, sometimes they can alter factors such as how quickly the virus spreads, whether it can evade the body’s immune response more effectively, or even the severity of the disease it causes.
When this happens, a variant will go from one that’s simply being monitored (also known as a variant under investigation) to one of concern – and that requires action to reduce its spread.
COVID-19: Experts Urge Continued Precautions Against New Variants
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New Indian variant of concern behind at least 40% of London cases, alarmed scientists warn
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Scientists in urgent rush to crack mutations on new Indian variant as cases surge
10 May 2021, 14:54
Updated: 10 May 2021, 17:44
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THERE is a “critical need” to find out more information on the new Indian Covid variant, scientists say.
It comes after cases caused by the strain have doubled in the UK in one week.
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The second of the three Indian variants has rapidly become a concern
The new Indian “variant of concern”, called B.1.617.2, was only detected in the UK in mid-April.
But due to its rapid growth in cases, already confirmed in 509 cases with a further couple hundred under investigation, scientists are racing to understand more about it.
Live Leeds Covid news as government set to announce travel green list
Portugal, Iceland, Malta, Israel and Gibraltar are expected to make the cut
Holidaymakers are expected to find out today which countries have been added to the travel green list.
The government is due to announce destinations that can be visited without quarantining this summer, with Portugal, Iceland and Malta expected to make the list.
Once restrictions ease further on May 17, travel will be permitted again but the government is introducing a traffic light system to make it safe.
It comes after scientists are stepping up preparations for an autumn booster vaccination campaign to protect against a third wave of coronavirus.