(ANSA) - ROME, NOV 26 - The new variant of the coronavirus is the most significant discovered so far by scientists.
Says a senior UK health official, reports the BBC online.
Scientists fear that the variant - known as B.1.1.529 - may be more transmissible and more capable of evading vaccines.
"This is the most significant variant we have encountered to date and urgent research is underway to learn more about its transmissibility, severity and vaccine susceptibility," said Jenny Harries, chief executive of the UK's Health Safety Agency (Ukhsa). .
Scientists are examining "public health qualifications may limit the impact of B.1.1.529".
(HANDLE).