Among the families of RNA viruses, the coronaviruses have the largest genome. The mutant in the UKA distinct phylogenetic cluster or lineage (named B.1.1.7) of SARS-CoV-2 was recently discovered in the UK. Both these mutations were earlier observed independently, but have come together in the UK variant viruses. A fast spreader variant called 501.V2 emerged independently in South Africa and shares the N501Y mutation with the UK variants. Conducive Indian conditionsAnother reason to worry is that the conditions hypothesised to give rise to the UK variant are present in India as well.

Source: Indian Express December 27, 2020 20:37 UTC