New COVID-19 Variant Identified in South Africa

[Image source=AP Yonhap News]

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] Researchers in South Africa have identified a new COVID-19 variant called 'C.1.2'.

According to Bloomberg on the 30th (local time), C.1.2 was first detected in May in Mpumalanga and Gauteng provinces of South Africa. C.1.2 evolved from 'C.1', which was the dominant virus lineage during the first infection wave in South Africa in mid-last year.

Scientists stated in a research report published by research organizations including the KwaZulu-Natal Research Innovation and Sequencing Platform (Krisp) and the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) that "the new variant carries many concerning mutations."

The new variant has also been found in seven other countries across Africa, Oceania, Asia, and Europe.

Scientists explained, "The mutations in the variant are associated with increased transmissibility and a greater ability to evade antibodies," adding, "Because of the high number of mutations, it is important to closely monitor the lineage."

South African scientists previously identified the Beta variant through viral genome sequencing within the country last year. During the recent third infection wave, which has passed its peak, the India-origin Delta variant was the dominant strain.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.