The world is worried about a new mutation in the coronavirus. The variant first observed in South Africa is still designated with the abbreviation B.1.1.529, but it will soon be assigned a letter of the Greek alphabet. There are thousands of Sars-Cov-2 mutations, viruses have this in themselves and are due to their sloppy reproduction, which repeatedly results in reading errors in the genetic material. Most mutations have no consequences and hardly change the virus. A few can become threatening; the World Health Organization divides them into Variants of Interest (VOI) and Variants of Concern (VOC).
Little is known about the new variant. Numerous changes in the spike protein could indicate that it is more dangerous than its predecessor and, as an escape mutation, even undermines the protection provided by the vaccination. But that is by no means certain. Virologists point out that there were, at first glance, worrying changes even with previous mutations, which then did not turn out to be more dangerous. It is uncertain whether the South African variant will become an even more threatening virus than the Delta variant, which is both more contagious and is associated with severe courses. Nobody can currently reliably assess the extent of the threat. It is quite possible that in a few weeks no one will be talking about B.1.1.529.
Panic is unfounded and there is great uncertainty. What is certain, however, is that the mutant has already infected the heads. The willingness to alarm is currently as great as fear, after all, the threat situation could worsen. Flight connections are already being discontinued, borders are cordoned off. Maybe this is excessive caution, maybe just the right step. What is also certain: the risk of mutations and dangerous variants is greater, the more viruses are on the road. High incidences mean great pressure of infection. The best way to counter the fear and possibly increasingly dangerous cycles of the pandemic is to take measures to contain it. Immediately, not at some point. Not just here, anywhere in the world. If more and more people get vaccines and limit contacts, and if as many as possible are vaccinated in those countries that have enough vaccine, the virus simply has no way of developing new variants.