Scientists at Texas A&M University’s Global Health Research Center (GHRC) say they have discovered a new variant of Covid-19 that shows signs of a more infectious strain that causes more serious illness and appears to be resistant to antibodies.
CNBC News reported April 22 that the new variant, BV-1, named after its Brazos Valley (Brazos Valley) origin, was discovered during a coronavirus (Covidium) screening via a saliva sample after a young Texas A&M University student developed mild flu-like symptoms.
The student tested positive for Covid-19 on March 5 and again on March 25, indicating that the new strain may have caused the young man to be infected for a longer period of time. The student’s symptoms resolved by April 2 and a third test for the virus was performed on April 9 and came back negative.
We do not yet understand the full significance of this variant, but it has elements of a combination with other internationally notified, similar mutations of concern,” said Ben Neuman, chief virologist at Texas A&M University. This variant combines genetic markers associated with rapid transmission, severe disease and highly resistant antibodies.”
The scientists also said they have submitted documentation on BV-1 to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) to warn officials and prevent further transmission of this variant.
The lab has identified many Covid mutations through its genetic sequencing program, but Neumann said the genetic makeup of the strain is of particular concern.
The student is currently the only case of infection with the variant virus identified to date. Neumann added, “We have not detected additional cases of this variant. We have not propagated or tested this virus in any way. The announcement is based solely on genetic sequence analysis performed in the laboratory.”
Many U.S. labs are only sequencing severe cases of Covid, but the Texas A&M lab is testing and sequencing asymptomatic students to identify dangerous strains early before they can cause serious illness.
“Sequencing helps provide an early warning system for new variants.” Neumann said.
The lab scientists said they do not yet fully understand BV-1, but believe the variant “highlights the important need for rigorous surveillance and genomic testing,” especially among young people who are asymptomatic or exhibit mild symptoms.
Laboratory scientists say the new variant is related to the British strain B.1.1.7, against which current vaccines have been shown to be effective.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) website, five variants of the virus have been identified, and the above-mentioned virus would be the sixth.
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