Highly mutated COVID variant BA.2.86 detected in 2 more countries, but 'pandemic in a different phase’, says WHO
Also read: New COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 more infectious, capable of causing infection in vaccinated individuals: US CDC A group of international scientists suggests that while monitoring BA.2.86 is essential, it's unlikely to trigger a devastating wave of severe disease and fatalities, considering the global immunity built up through vaccinations and previous infections. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO's COVID-19 technical lead, stated that the number of cases is still relatively low. The fact that known cases aren't linked suggests that it is already circulating more widely, especially given reduced global surveillance.
Researchers are currently assessing the effectiveness of updated COVID-19 vaccines against BA.2.86. Kerkhove noted that vaccines have been more successful in preventing severe illness and death compared to reinfection. Dr.
Nirav Shah, principal deputy director of the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, mentioned that the new variant was identified recently, and there have been nine cases as of August 23. It was also found in wastewater in Switzerland. At present, current tests and treatments seem effective against BA.2.86, although the variant might have an increased capability to cause infection in vaccinated individuals and those with prior COVID infections.
However, there's no evidence yet suggesting it leads to more severe illness. Also read: COVID-19: US CDC tracks new variant, Which countries are under the radar? WHO says ‘Variant Under Monitoring’ Experts emphasise taking the potential risk seriously and maintaining surveillance, even if not at the levels seen during the peak of the pandemic. Van Kerkhove stressed that governments must remain vigilant because the coronavirus still circulates,
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