New variant ‘could already by in the UK’ amid fears vaccines are 40% less effective, expert warns
Source: The Sun
It is the most evolved so far with 50 mutations, 32 of which are of particular concern, and could be worse than Delta, experts have warned.
The variant has only been found in five countries so far – but its power has sparked a sudden ban on flights from six nations to the UK.
The variant, scientifically called B.1.1.529, has not yet been confirmed in the UK as of yet.
But Dr. Susan Hopkins, chief medical adviser at the UK Health Security Agency, said it was “always possible”.
With up to 700 people flying in from South Africa per day, it cannot be ruled out.
Health Secretary Sajid Javid has warned the variant “poses a substantial risk” to the public and it’s “highly likely” it’s spread to other countries.
