New COVID-19 hybrid combines India and U.K. variants’ traits

The transcript discusses the detection of mutations from the UK variant in Vietnam and the spread of the Indian variant, which carries mutations L452R and E484Q. These mutations enhance the virus's ability to bind to human cells and may reduce the effectiveness of antibodies. A new variant in Vietnam combines these mutations with a Y144 deletion. Vietnam has seen a significant rise in COVID-19 cases since late April. The WHO has not assessed this new variant but has introduced a Greek alphabet-based naming system to avoid stigmatization.

Which country's variant mutations were detected in Vietnam?

• South Africa

• Brazil

• UK

• USA

What is the significance of the L452R mutation in the Indian variant?

• It makes the virus more visible to antibodies.

• It allows the virus to bind more stably to human cells.

• It causes the virus to mutate more slowly.

• It reduces the virus's ability to spread.

What is the effect of the E484Q mutation on the virus?

• It may make the virus less susceptible to preexisting antibodies.

• It increases the virus's visibility to the immune system.

• It makes the virus more susceptible to antibodies.

• It decreases the virus's ability to bind to human cells.

What additional mutation does the new variant in Vietnam have?

• A N501Y mutation on its spike protein

• A P681H mutation on its spike protein

• A Y144 deletion on its spike protein

• A D614G mutation on its spike protein

Why did the WHO introduce a new naming system for virus variants?

• To make it easier to remember the variants

• To avoid stigmatizing and discriminating against countries

• To categorize variants based on their severity

• To align with other international health organizations