What we know about the new Brazil strain

Q What is the Brazilian variant?

A There are two currently in circulation. Scientists detected one, P.1, in Manaus in december. The government is most concerned about this one. It has several mutations in parts of the genetic code responsible for building spike proteins, which work like grappling hooks to get into human cells. A change to its design could make it easier for it them to attach to human cells, while also making it harder for the immune system to get rid them.

Q Are these variants staying put?

A The second variant has been in the u.k. for some time, and has been picked up in 11 genomes. It has spread to 35 countries. It could become the dominant variant in the u.s. by March. Known as B.1.1.7, it is believed to be twice as contagious as the current u.s. versions. So far, 76 people from 10 states have been infected. Canada has seen 14 cases of it.

The South African variant is in at least the u.k., Germany, Israel and in British Columbia and Alberta.

Q What are the symptoms of the Brazilian variant?

A At the moment, it seems the symptoms are the same as the more familiar strain.

Q Could it hamper a vaccine?

A Possibly. Most vaccines target the spike protein the virus uses to latch on to human cells. The vaccines prime the body to spot the spike protein so the immune system can spot the virus.

However, if the spike protein mutates, the body can no longer recognize the virus and vaccines may prove ineffective.

Mutations may also mean that antibodies do not attach properly to the virus cells, making it more difficult to clear the infection.

The mutation seems to be able to evade antibodies produced after an earlier infection, raising the risk of infection from the variant.

Q Is the Brazil variant more dangerous than the U.K. and South African variants?

A The Brazilian P.1 variant carries similar worrying mutations, notably the N501 and E484 mutations, which seem to allow easier transmission.

Scientists are particularly concerned about the Brazilian variant as it has emerged in a population that was approaching herd immunity. Genetic sequencing has shown at least one person who had the virus in the first wave now has the variant. A rapid increase of cases could happen in areas where rates were already high.

The u.k. variant is believed to have increased transmissibility between 50 and 77 per cent.

It also had mutations that stopped antibodies working.

There is little evidence yet that the second Brazilian variant is more dangerous but it is thought to have caused reinfection.