Instant International
Written by: Yang Qian
2020-12-24 04:34
Last update date: 2020-12-24 07:31
Although there are no signs that the new crown variant virus will aggravate the condition of infected persons or cause more serious illnesses, studies have shown that the recently discovered variants of the virus are highly contagious, and it is even more frightening that virologists around the world have unanimously stated that the new variants may cause children As easily as adults.
The British new crown virus variant that caused a new round of panic around the world, the scientific name is B.1.1.7, was discovered as early as September, and it frequently appeared in southern Britain until December to cause concern.
Why does the virus mutate?
Virus variants occur in special hosts.
Ordinary people are infected with the new crown virus and only show symptoms for a few days.
At this time, the body's immune system will defend itself, and the number of viruses will decrease. Unless severe symptoms appear, they are usually completely eliminated within a few weeks.
However, in people with weakened immune systems, the virus can be active for several months, and will accumulate mutations in the body for long-term replication.
The mutation and evolution of the virus may also be driven by medication, and some variants may be resistant to monoclonal antibodies.
In addition, the virus may also acquire new mutations by spreading in animal hosts (such as mink) and reinfect people.
A large number of British people fled London (click to view larger image):
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Why is it super infectious?
The British study found that the transmission rate of this variant of B.1.1.7 is 50% to 70% higher than the previous variant.
B.1.1.7 There are a large number of mutations in the genome (23 in total), and each mutation may change the shape of the spike protein on the virus surface.
The virus attaches to the cell through the spike protein and opens the channel to enter the cell.
While B.1.1.7 has as many as 8 spikes, it is easier to bind to human related receptors.
Usually children are less likely to be infected or spread the new coronavirus than adults, because the receptors of the respiratory epithelial cells of children and the receptors of angiotensin-converting enzyme 2 (ACES) are less than those of adults
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B.1.1. 7 The attack of the multi-headed spikes, the children's immune defense line also fell.
Will mutation abolish vaccine martial arts?
Most experts believe that the variant will not have a major impact on the vaccine.
At present, both the Moderna and Pfizer vaccines guide the immune system to produce antibodies against the spike protein on the surface of the virus.
The antibodies produced by the vaccine stay on the top of the spike, preventing the virus from entering the cell.
And B.1.1.7 has eight spike genes, making it more difficult for antibodies to grasp them.
But if the variant evolves to avoid the immune system's counterattack, adaptability may make the vaccine less effective.
Now British and American researchers are testing this possibility.
With the rapid spread of the new crown virus worldwide, the British government confirmed on December 19 that the virus has mutated.
(U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention)
What is the South African variant virus?
A variant of the new coronavirus of another lineage is spreading rapidly along the coast of South Africa and is beginning to spread globally including landing in the United Kingdom.
Preliminary studies have found that the South African virus variant has a higher concentration in the respiratory tract of the infected person. In many viral diseases, this means that there will be more severe symptoms and more infectious power.
Experts warn that it is more spreading than the British B.1.1.7.
Strict epidemic prevention is still effective against variant viruses. Remember to wear a mask, maintain social distancing, wash hands frequently, disinfect and ventilate.
(New York Times/CNBC/Reuters)
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