Coronavirus variants: what you need to know

As the United States achieves the one year anniversary to fight against Pandid-19 pandemic, there seems to be a light at the end of the tunnel with more vaccines launched. But, another potential threat is still lurking – the coronavirus variants. It is normal for viruses to mutate and change, but because the coronavirus has affected the world so dramatically, there are many fears about how these variants will affect us.

How many? Where are they? Do vaccines work against them? Are they more fatal? How can they affect when we are able to beat the pandemic?

To answer these and other questions, we talked to a doctor and consulted the CDC and updated information we have from scientists. It is important to note that the COVID-19 variants are a rapidly developing topic, so we will continue to update this FAQ as new information becomes available.

What are the variants of the COVID-19 and where are they spreading?

“Variants of COVID-19 occur when the original COVID-19 strain mutates. This is a normal process among viruses and generally occurs as an error when the virus is replicating within the body,” said Dr. Nicholas L. Pantaleo , intern and family doctor at the Westmed Medical Group in Westchester, NY. “Most mutations do not alter or weaken the virus, but some can make it stronger or more infectious,” says Pantaleo.

There are several different variants that have emerged around the world, but in general, there are three main variants that are circulating globally and that the scientific and medical community is looking at. These variants are:

B.1.1.7 or the United Kingdom strain: This strain was first found in England and has now spread throughout the world, including the United States. According to the CDC, the variant spreads more quickly and easily than other variants and can potentially be more dangerous, although more research is needed to confirm this. “Variant B.1.1.7 has a 35% to 75% increase in transmissibility over the predominant strain currently in circulation,” says Pantaleo. He added that on March 4, at least 170 cases of this variant were found in New York.

B.1.351 or the South African strain: This strain was first found in South Africa and the United States in late January. Clinical trials have shown that the Astrazeneca vaccine is less protective against this strain, causing concern among scientists and health leaders. According to The New York Times, preliminary studies by Pfizer and Moderna show that their vaccines are “less effective” against this strain, but still offer some protection.

According to a report in The New York Times, people who have already been infected with another strain of the virus may not be protected against that strain, which is another cause of concern for those who have recovered from COVID-19. “[This variant] has a 150% increase in transmissibility, and existing vaccines may not provide as much protection against it, “says Pantaleo.” There is growing concern about infections with this strain, even if the individual has been infected with a different strain before ” , he Panteleo added that on March 4 there were at least 2 cases of this variant found in New York.

P.1 or Brazilian coloring: This variant was found for the first time in travelers from Brazil who were tested at a Japanese airport. His cause for concern comes from suspicions that he may escape antibodies (such as those from previous infections or potentially vaccines). “[The Brazil Variant] is what we know least, but preliminary data suggests an increase in transmissibility, “says Pantaleo. The variant was recently found in Illinois, as well as Maryland, New Jersey, Oregon, Minnesota, Florida, Oklahoma and Alaska, according to The New York Times.

Other strains: “There have even been mutations found in the United States, including a West Coast variant (B.1.427 / B.1.429 or CAL2.0C),” says Pantaleo. Another variant in New York City (B.1.526) is spreading rapidly, accounting for about 27% of cases in New York City in mid-February, according to The New York Times. The New York variant may weaken vaccine effectiveness. “This variant has mutations in the spike protein that contribute to the immune escape of monoclonal antibodies, as well as neutralizing antibodies in the convalescent plasma COVID-19,” says Pantaleo.

Do vaccines work against variants?

“All three current COVID-19 vaccines available appear to provide some protection against the new strains, especially for the worst scenarios that include hospitalization and death,” said Pantaleo. “New versions and / or booster vaccines are being developed and tested for better protection against these new mutant strains.”

Before you think you can avoid vaccination because you have already taken and recovered from COVID-19, think again. “There is a belief that current COVID-19 vaccines protect against new variants more than a past infection,” says Pantaleo.

As so much information is still unknown at the moment, it is important to continue to follow CDC safety guidelines, including wearing masks and physical distance, even if you have taken COVID-19 or been vaccinated, until experts say there is no problem with do the opposite.

In short, all of the various vaccines currently approved are considered safe by the CDC, FDA and health officials. Although the exact efficacy rates vary for each vaccine, in general, vaccines are showing protection against more severe cases of COVID-19 and death from infection. As more variants of the virus are expected (and existing variants spread), it is more important than ever to distribute vaccines quickly and effectively.

Are variants more contagious or more dangerous?

“Although more studies and evaluations on these variants are taking place constantly, all three seem to spread more easily than the original COVID-19. However, we are still unsure whether they are more fatal,” said Pantaleo. The CDC says that as the variants appear to be more contagious, they can increase the number of cases, which can lead to more pressure on the health system and more deaths.

Some experts fear that the variants could “hijack” the pandemic’s progress in the coming months, so it is important to follow security protocols, especially now.

“Each person still needs to continue wearing masks, distance themselves socially and maintain proper hygiene to remain vigilant against all of these strains. Even if a person has completed a series of vaccines, these protocols must continue to help lower overall infection rates. in the United States, “says Pantaleo.

How do you protect yourself against variants?

The security measures that we have been instructed to follow for the entire pandemic will help protect you from variants. This includes wearing masks in public or close to people outside your home, keeping physical distance from people who do not live with you, getting tested and quarantined when you feel sick or if you have been exposed and practice proper hand hygiene. In addition, being vaccinated when a vaccine is available to you is also important to protect yourself and others and eventually help to end the pandemic.

The information in this article is for educational and informational purposes only and is not intended for medical or health advice. Always consult a doctor or other qualified healthcare professional regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition or health goals.