What is the most contagious South African variant of COVID-19? Is it more dangerous?

DETROIT – Michigan health officials are tracking a confirmed case of the most contagious South African variant of COVID-19.

The variant was detected in a boy from Jackson County. Contact trackers are following your close contacts and working to determine if there are any additional cases related to yours.

READING: Everything we know about virus variants in Michigan, USA

The coronavirus variant B117 appears to be at least 50% more transmissible. This means that if it spreads in the United States, it will produce more infections.

It was first reported in the United States on January 28, when it was identified in two people in South Carolina.

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The reason for its easier spread is that several of the mutations in the variant allow the spike protein to bind more tightly, making it a more effective invader.

A specific mutation in variant B117, known as N501Y, has already been found in other variants worldwide. It seems to be the main factor for the increase in transmissibility.

There is no indication that it is inherently more dangerous. But, as it spreads more easily, it can cause an outbreak of infections that can lead to an increase in hospitalizations and deaths.

READING: Michigan confirms South Africa’s first COVID variant case in Jackson County