British research suggests that the coronavirus mutates very slowly and is not more contagious

The preliminary results of a recently published UK study on the coronavirus look optimistic. Virologists from a specially appointed task force found that SARS-CoV-2 mutates extremely slowly. It also does not become more virulent and infectious. On the one hand, this gives hope that the infected will build up immunity and, on the other hand, that the vaccine will work in the long term.

1. Research by scientists from a special task force has allowed to trace the evolutionary origins of the coronavirus
2. It has been found to differ from other coronaviruses to such an extent that it could not be created by man
3. The virus mutates very slowly and does not become more dangerous or infectious
4. You can find more such stories on the TvoiLokony home page

SARS-CoV-2 is fairly stable, so it is easier to detect and treat

The research was conducted by leading British virologists who were part of the SET-C (Science in Emergencies Tasking – COVID-19) task force. After analyzing the genetic code of the coronavirus, they concluded that the slow mutation does not go hand in hand with an increase in virulence and infectivity.

This discovery may reassure doctors and epidemiologists as it indicates that people who contracted COVID-19 should develop immunity to reinfection. It also gives hope that the vaccine will be more effective in the long run.

The British argue that the coronavirus evolved naturally in bats, which refutes a popular conspiracy theory that it was developed in a Chinese laboratory. Moreover, the nature of the mutations and their location did not increase the virulence of SARS-CoV-2.

Previously, scientists believed that by mutating the virus becomes less virulent but more contagious. Now this theory is a thing of the past as mutations during the pandemic created markers to track the spread of the virus.

Team leader Professor Geoffrey Smith of the Department of Pathology at the University of Cambridge said: “SARS-CoV-2 has been shown to be fairly stable, which is good news as it will be easier to detect and treat. Sequencing the viral genome allows us not only to determine if someone is infected, but also to pinpoint the exact strain of the virus, and thus determine where the infection is most likely coming from ”.

‘We can also track strains that have become dominant and are most effective in replicating or transmitting,’ added Professor Smith.

Scientists point out that even a low mutation rate can allow the virus to develop resistance to certain drugs. However, they are convinced that the disease does not become more severe or contagious.

Where are the coronaviruses circulating in the UK coming from?

As part of the research, the task force traced the genetic origin of the coronaviruses circulating in the UK. Their closest relative has been found to be the bat coronavirus (RaTG13) found in China. Their genomes match 97%, although in the case of viruses this is a huge difference.

Previous research has shown that most likely SARS-CoV-2 first appeared in 1948 and for about 70 years it was carried by bats.

“The differences between SARS-CoV-2 and other known coronaviruses are enough to refute the claim that the pandemic was caused by a deliberate or accidental release of the virus from the laboratory,” the researchers explain.

However, their research confirms that the virus spread to humans either directly from bats or via an intermediate host – a mammal.

Professor Smith added: “We understand that when a new virus emerges, speculation about its origin multiplies. However, the pace at which scientists around the world are expanding their understanding of the genetics of SARS-CoV-2 is impressive. They track its spread, develop diagnostic tests and potential vaccines. They also refute some conspiracy theories. “

The report’s authors also found that a total of 2020 genetically distinct SARS-CoV-1356 strains were imported into the UK from February to March 2. More than a third (34 percent) came from Spain, which was the earlier focus of the outbreak, and 14 percent from Italy. 29 percent was “imported” from France and less than one percent directly from China.

See also:

1. “Coronavirus changed my life forever”. The head of the intensive care unit from a Bologna hospital tells about his fight against COVID-19
2. Durajski: if the number of cases rises to 10 a day, we will talk about the second wave
3. Experts will crack down on fake news about COVID-19. Educational campaign of the National Health Fund
4. Are we dealing with a second wave of COVID-19 in Europe?

The content of the medTvoiLokony website is intended to improve, not replace, the contact between the Website User and their doctor. The website is intended for informational and educational purposes only. Before following the specialist knowledge, in particular medical advice, contained on our Website, you must consult a doctor. The Administrator does not bear any consequences resulting from the use of information contained on the Website. Do you need a medical consultation or an e-prescription? Go to halodoctor.pl, where you will get online help – quickly, safely and without leaving your home.