New bug not faster spreader

NONE of the mutations in the new coronavirus appear to make it spread more rapidly, scientists have said.

However, the researchers from University College London have warned the world needs to remain vigilant and continue monitoring the genetic changes.

This is because the introduction of vaccines could “exert new selective pressures on the virus” that may lead to mutations that do not respond to jabs.

Professor Francois Balloux, of UCL’s Genetics Institute, said: “The virus may well acquire vaccine- escape mutations.

“But we’re confident we’ll be able to flag them up promptly, which would allow updating the vaccines in time – if required.”