UK: Two new variants of COVID-19 discovered, authorities suspects South African links

A second variant of the COVID-19 has been detected in the UK in a week. Health Secretary Matt Hancock called it a matter of great concern.

According to Hancock, there have been two cases of the new variant. Both affected returned from South Africa a few days ago. Matt stated that new things are coming out.

"Those who have returned from South Africa in a few weeks, I appeal to them to go to Quarantine and contact the Health Administration." added Hancock.

The Health Department of South Africa also said last week that new genetic mutations (new types of viruses in common language) of the corona have been detected, presumably due to the increasing number of infections.

South African Links

This can be understood by two things. First, the Health Department of South Africa had told about two weeks ago that a new variant of COVID-19 had been found there. Secondly, two cases of new variants in Britain, both of them arrived here from infected South Africa. The British Health Secretary is saying the same thing.

The new variant spreads faster

Britain was the first to approve vaccination. But, cases are still increasing rapidly here. The new strain spreads 70% faster. Hancock also said- The new variant of COVID-19 is a matter of great concern. It is more contagious, ie it spreads more quickly. He particularly appealed to those who have recently returned from South Africa to follow the protocols.Hancock noted that the returnees from South Africa will be quarantined and people exposed to them should do the same. They should also get in touch with the Health Department he said.

Britain has imposed a temporary ban on flights coming from South Africa. About 40 countries around the world have banned flights coming from Britain and South Africa. Expert's opinion  One thing has not been completely clear whether the variants found in Britain and South Africa are exactly the same or there is some difference between the two. In this regard, Susan Hopkins of Public Health England said, "The new variants we have identified in the UK, and those found in South Africa, are very different. Their mutation is also different. One thing is the same, both variants spread rapidly. We are doing more research on this." The vaccine will be effective

Susan is not too worried about the new variant and the current situation. She said that she is confident that the variant connecting wires to South Africa will be controlled soon. Not only this, the vaccine that the UK have, can also effectively overcome it.

"We do not have any such evidence at this time, which can tell that our vaccine will not affect the new variant. It can completely and safely overcome many variations (types) of viruses." added Susan.