New variant of the virus
02/09/2023
The new BA.2.86 variant could undermine existing immunity.
Just in time for the start of autumn, Corona numbers are rising again. The main reason for this is currently the new ”Eris” or EG.5.1 variant, which is spreading more and more around the world and has already reached Austria.
However, numerous experts warn less about “Eris” and more about the BA.2.86 variant, which was discovered in Denmark in July. The new variant of the virus is under observation due to the “high number of mutations in its spike gene”, said the WHO. The Omicron branch has more than 35 mutations in key areas of the virus compared to this year’s leading variant, XBB.1.5.
35 mutations
The great expert Eric Feigl-Ding is alarmed on Twitter. “Almost all mutations have the ability to bypass antibodies,” said the virologist. “BA.2.86 has numerous mutations compared to the vaccine provided in the fall. “To be honest, that’s a lot,” Feigl-Ding continued.
German virologist Martin Sturmer also warns about the new variant. “BA.2.86 differs from Omicron as much as Omicron differs from Delta – and can therefore undermine existing immunity,” the expert told Handelsblatt. “Then Corona would start all over again.” At the same time, however, Sturmer emphasizes that so far there is no evidence that this new variant is becoming established.
Other experts also try to reassure. However, a devastating wave of illness and death is not to be expected, given the immunity that has been built around the world through vaccinations and previous infections. “We are at a completely different phase (of the pandemic) than if it had emerged in the first year,” said Dutch virologist Marion Koopmans.