The WHO stated that the variant has mutations that indicate a risk of vaccine resistance and that more research is needed to better understand it. “The Mu variant has a constellation of mutations that indicate potential immune escape properties,” according to the bulletin. There is widespread concern about the emergence of new virus mutations as global infection rates rise again, with the highly transmissible Delta variant taking hold – particularly among the unvaccinated and in areas where anti-virus measures have been relaxed. All viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, which causes Covid-19, mutate over time, and the majority of mutations have little or no effect on the virus’s properties. However, certain mutations can alter a virus’s properties, influencing how easily it spreads, the severity of the disease it causes, and its resistance to vaccines, drugs, and other countermeasures.
The WHO currently identifies four Covid-19 variants of concern, including Alpha, which is found in 193 countries, and Delta, which is found in 170.Five variants, including Mu, will be tracked.
Mu was discovered in Colombia and has since been reported in other South American countries as well as Europe.
