In the statement made by BioNTech, it was stated that the new variant of the new type of coronavirus (Kovid-19), named B.1.1.529, is different from previous variants as it has additional mutations.
“IMMEDIATELY” STARTED
Emphasizing that research on the B.1.1.529 variant was started “immediately”, the statement said, “We expect more data from laboratory tests within two weeks at the latest.” statement was included.
In the statement, it was stated that these data will provide more information on whether the variant in question will be an ‘escape variant’ in the nRNA vaccine, reminding that Pfizer and BioNTech have the capacity to make the necessary changes in the vaccine in 6 weeks and send the first deliveries within 100 days.
It was also stated in the statement that Pfizer and BioNTech have started technical trials for a variant-specific vaccine.
“SUPER VARIANT”
The new variant of the new type of coronavirus (Kovid-19), named B.1.1.529, seen in the Republic of South Africa and Botswana, caused global concern. The B.1.1.529 variant, seen in 9 people in South Africa and Botswana, is described as a “super variant” and is known to have 32 mutations.
For now, research continues to determine whether current vaccines are effective against this variant, which has a low incidence.
THE WORLD IS DANGEROUS
The possibility that the new variant may be more contagious than the Delta strain and that vaccines may be less effective against this variant has raised concerns around the world.
While the UK has decided to add Lesotho, Esvatini and Zimbabwe to the red list, as well as South Africa and Botswana, the EU has stated that it plans to stop flights from the south of Africa.
Turkey had stopped flights to South Africa from November 15, before the new variant was yet detected. (AA)