Concern across the globe grows over new virus variant

SCIENTISTS and governments across the globe are growing increasingly concerned about a new Covid-19 variant which originated in southern Africa.

The B.1.1.529 “Omicron” variant, which has now been found in Belgium as well as South Africa, Botswana, Hong Kong and Israel, is thought to be twice as complex as the Delta mutation currently spreading through the UK.

UK Government Health Secretary Sajid Javid said there was “huge international concern” over the strain and its potential to be highly infectious and more resistant to vaccines.

He added that the variant “may pose substantial risk to public health” as it has “an unusually high number of mutations”.

In a statement issued yesterday afternoon, Public Health Wales (PHW) reemphasised that mutations in this variant are “clearly concerning” but anticipated.

Dr Meng Khaw, national director for Health Protection and Screening Services for Public Health Wales, said: “Public Health Wales is aware of the new B.1.1.529 variant which has been identified in South Africa, Hong Kong and Botswana.

“The number of mutations in this variant is clearly concerning, but new variants are anticipated. We keep variants under constant review and we work with UK partners to identify, detect and monitor new and known variants.

“The Delta variant continues to be the dominant strain in Wales, and there are no cases of the new variant identified in Wales.

“The single best thing you can do to protect yourself, your community and the NHS against new variants of coronavirus is to take up the offer of a vaccine.

“If you develop a cough, fever or change in sense of taste or smell, you must self-isolate immediately and book a free coronavirus test by calling 119 or by visiting the Welsh Government website.”

No cases have been detected in the UK so far but everyone who has returned from South Africa in the past 10 days will be contacted and asked to take a test.

Meanwhile Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said it was not time to “press the panic button” over the new variant.