A variant of coronavirus first found in the United Kingdom has gained a mutation that could make it more resistant to vaccines, according to a new analysis by Public Health England.
The variant, known as B.1.1.7, was first discovered in December and spread rapidly in the UK. It has since appeared in 72 countries. It is much more transmissible than other strains and there is some evidence that it could cause more deaths.
In the US, the variant was discovered in 32 states, although experts believe it is probably more widespread and could become the dominant strain by March.
According to the analysis, the estimated rates for mutation cases are 25 to 40% higher than the estimated attack rates for other strains.
Another mutation, known as E484K, is related to strains from Brazil and South Africa that have been shown to be more resistant to existing vaccines.
Existing vaccines from Moderna and Pfizer are effective against strain B.1.1.7, but the variant found in South Africa is more problematic. Trial data from Johnson & Johnson and Novavax show that their COVID-19 vaccines are not as effective against it.
The South African variant known as B.1.351 has so far been reported in 31 countries and at least two states.
According to Public Health England, the preliminary investigation found that the E484K mutation occurs several times among variants B.1.1.7.
If this is the case, it is a sign that the mutation is a relatively easy way for the virus to gain an advantage.
Experts say the best way to prevent other, more potentially dangerous mutations and variants is to get people vaccinated as soon as possible, because more immune people are less likely to spread and evolve the virus.
Vaccines can be upgraded to specifically address this mutation, and mRNA vaccines – which include Pfizer and Moderna products – are especially suitable for upgrading.