Genetics researchers have reported that they have seen a troubling new lineage of coronavirus that carries many of the same hallmarks as other strains, including Alpha, Beta and Gamma.
The C.1.2 is possible new strain which has multiple mutations. However, it has not yet been labelled as a variant of concern.
According to the researchers report, the variant being monitored is in all provinces in South Africa and seven countries in Africa, Asia, Europe and Oceania.
The researchers report states, “We are currently assessing the impact of this variant on antibody neutralization following SARS-CoV-2 infection or vaccination against SARS-CoV-2 in South Africa,”
“This variant has been detected throughout the third wave of infections in South Africa from May 2021 onwards and has been detected in seven other countries within Europe, Asia, Africa and Oceania. The identification of novel SARS-CoV-2 variants is commonly associated with new waves of infection,” it further reads.
Scientists are studying the variant's various mutations and transmission as well as how it responds to coronavirus antibodies.
According to technical lead on Covid-19 for the World Health Organization (WHO) Maria van Kerkhove, the variant does not appear to be rising in circulation.
Kerkhove said the Delta variant was still dominant and that the WHO would inform people if that changes.
South Africa, which has been hit hard by both the Delta and Beta variants of coronavirus, has so far recorded 2,770,575 cases and 81,830 deaths.
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