The C.1.2 variant has recently caught the attention of scientists due to mutations in its genome, similar to those observed in prominent variants like Delta.

In recent days, a new variant of the coronavirus in South Africa has made headlines worldwide. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases in South Africa has issued a warning about the “C.1.2 lineage,” stating that this variant has been identified in all provinces of the country at a relatively low rate. South African scientists have identified multiple mutations in this new variant of the coronavirus and are still investigating whether it is more transmissible than previous variants or if it can overcome the immunity and antibodies provided by vaccines or previous infections. According to unreleased research, the C.1.2 variant was first identified in May and June and has now spread to most provinces in South Africa and seven other countries in Africa, Europe, Asia, and Oceania. In this article, we will explore what is known about the “C.1.2” variant of the coronavirus.

What do we know about the “C.1.2” variant of the coronavirus?

This variant includes numerous mutations associated with increased transmissibility and decreased sensitivity to antibody neutralization, similar to variations seen in other notable strains. However, these mutations occur in a different combination, and researchers are still uncertain about how it impacts the virus’s behavior. Laboratory experiments to determine the neutralization level of this variant by antibodies are currently underway.

Researchers emphasize that the new variant is genetically distant from the original Wuhan strain, with 44 to 59 mutations, evolving at a rate of approximately 41.8 substitutions per year, nearly double the estimated evolution rate of the initial virus, which was 24 substitutions per year.

South Africa was the first country to identify the beta variant, one of only four strains that the World Health Organization has labeled as “of concern.” Researchers believe that the beta variant spreads more easily than the original coronavirus strain causing COVID-19, and there is evidence that it may reduce immunity provided by vaccines against this variant. Some countries have restricted travel to South Africa due to concerns about the beta variant.

Richard Lessells, Ph.D., a specialist in infectious diseases and a researcher studying the C.1.2 variant, believes that this new variant has features of immune evasion greater than those of the delta variant. However, research is ongoing to assess the impact of its mutations on infection and resistance to vaccines.

Genomic sequencing data from South Africa shows that the C.1.2 variant accounted for about 3% of samples in July, compared to 1% in June, while the delta variant accounted for 67% in June and 89% in July.

Delta is the fastest and most adaptable variant of the coronavirus the world has encountered so far. Potential scenarios of a renewed surge in COVID-19 cases, even as countries ease restrictions and reopen their economies, have increased concerns.

Dr. Lessells believes that C.1.2, based on its mutation pattern, has more features of immune evasion than the delta variant. These findings have not been commented on by the South African Health Ministry spokesperson.

The vaccination process against COVID-19 started slowly in South Africa, and only about 14% of its adult population has been fully vaccinated so far.

Has the World Health Organization declared the C.1.2 variant as a “variant of concern” or “variant of interest”?

No, the National Institute for Communicable Diseases continues to monitor the prevalence of C.1.2 and its behavior. Tests and research are ongoing to evaluate the effect of mutations in the C.1.2 variant on infection and vaccine resistance.

Thus far, this virus has not met the World Health Organization’s criteria for being declared a “variant of concern” or a “variant of interest.”

 What does “variant of concern” mean?

According to the World Health Organization, variants of concern, such as the delta variant, are those that show a high level of transmissibility, changes in disease severity, and reduced effectiveness of public health and social measures.

What does “variant of interest” mean?

According to the World Health Organization, a variant of interest refers to strains that are causing clusters in multiple communities and have been identified in several countries. However, the level of spread and severity is not yet established.

Sources:
1. Reuters
2. The Guardian