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Viruses can be very unpredictable because they have a rapidly evolving nature. You will find constant changes in viruses through mutations, and new variants continuously emerge over time.
COVID-19 is no different in this aspect, and even though it has been here for over a year, scientists are still grappling with its variants. Coronavirus is a large family of viruses causing COVID-19. We attribute this name of the virus because its surfaces have several crown-like spikes, though it is anything but royal. AFC Urgent Care North Bergen provides COVID testing for all patients in the area. Visit us today to get tested.
What are the known different variants?
The world has so far documented multiple variants that COVID-19 has circulated the world. Let’s take a look at them below:
- In the fall of 2020, U.K documented the B.1.1.7 variant having a large number of mutations. In comparison to other variants, this one spreads faster and more efficiently. The U.K experts went as far as to claim that this new variant was even more lethal, resulting in the increased risks of death than the other variants. However, more studies and evidence are yet to confirm this theory.
- Brazil witnessed the emergence of variant P.1 in Brazilian travelers coming from Japan. This instance occurred in early January 2021, and experts note a set of traditional mutations in this variant. They believe the mutations might affect the antibodies and their ability to recognize the set of mutations.
- Variant B.1.351 emerged independently in South Africa. The first cases came to light in early October 2020, and experts noted some similar mutations between the B.1.1.7. cases. The U.S noted this variant in their residents around the end of January 20212.
As per the reports the experts have been able to put together thus far, these new variants are quicker and easier to spread and can cause a more massive outbreak of COVID-19.
How to Stay Safe
As clinical trials and studies are underway, the best measure of protection you can take as of now are as follows. As vaccine drives begin across the nations, scientists hope that the vaccines will recognize the new strains and curb much of their impact.
In the meanwhile, here is what you and your loved ones can do:
- Limit your social bubble to the maximum extent possible. The more everyone stays indoors and away from one another, the higher are the chances of constraining the spread.
- Limit shopping onsite. Stick to online order and home deliveries for all you can.
- Do not hesitate to switch to a work from a home model and online schooling. Health is the priority right now.
- Wear a mask when around others not in your household
- Wash your hands frequently
- Get your vaccination as soon as it is available for you in your area.
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