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In the latter part of 2020, South African scientists detected a new strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, also named the 501Y.V2 strain. Similar (but different) new strains have also been detected in the UK and Brazil. It has been shown that the new South African strain could be responsible for up to 86% of infections detected during our recent second wave. ⠀⠀⠀
The changes in the virus makes it more transmissible than the original strain, but does not seem to have increased virulence and therefore does not cause a more severe or deadlier disease than has been previously reported. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Higher number of Paediatric infections have been noted but this is because the virus spreads easier and more people in the community therefore get infected. ⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀⠀
Important to note is that with the new variant, previous antibodies acquired after infection of the original strain might not be protective against this new strain. You therefore can get infected again with this new strain. ⠀
The only way to protect your family against all strains of the SARS- CoV-2 virus is to remain vigilant. Please remember to wear masks in all public spaces, wash and sanitise hands and surfaces and practice safe social distancing.
Xoxo, Dr Christa