Lately, the mutation of the Corona virus has become a hot topic of conversation in the community, both in Indonesia and throughout the world. This mutated virus is said to be able to spread faster than the previous Corona virus. Is this true and what impact will it have on vaccine production?
Since the end of 2019, the world has been shocked by the Corona virus which first appeared in the city of Wuhan, China. Viruses that attack the respiratory system are included in the same group of viruses as the viruses that cause SARS and MERS. Just like other viruses, the Corona virus that causes COVID-19 can also mutate.
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- Rapid Test Antibodies
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Since it was first discovered until now, studies have found that the Corona virus has undergone several mutations. However, please note that this is something that is common and should happen.
Corona Virus Mutation Facts
Virus mutations are changes in the genetic material of the virus that can affect the structure or how the virus works. This can happen when the virus is replicating itself in the cells of the human body.
Corona virus or SARS-CoV-2 is a type of RNA virus (ribonucleic acid), which are viruses with single-stranded genetic material. Because of this structure, RNA viruses are known to be more susceptible to mutation. So far, several new variants of the Corona virus have been identified, namely Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Mu, and Delta variants. Each of these variants has its own characteristics.
Even so, the mutation frequency of the Corona virus is known to be quite stable, not even faster than the influenza virus, which is known to mutate so often that the vaccine needs to be changed every year.
Changes That Occur Due To The Corona Virus Mutation
As has been said before, the mutation of the Corona virus has occurred several times. However, the changes that occurred did not cause a significant impact so they did not require special attention.
Now, recently researchers found a D614G mutation that causes changes in the protein spike, namely the protein that forms the crown of the Corona virus. In short, at the beginning of its appearance, the crown of the Corona virus has a protein called D614. Gradually, the structure of this protein changed to G614 due to mutations.
Impact of the Corona Virus Mutation on its Spread
Some studies suggest that this mutation makes SARS-CoV-2 more contagious. However, the truth has yet to be confirmed.
Research does show that people who contract the Corona virus with the D614G mutation have a higher amount of virus in their bodies. Even so, this does not necessarily make the virus more easily spread.
In fact, one study states that this can be beneficial because it can simplify and increase the accuracy of Corona virus detection through swab test and PCR tests.
Meanwhile, the delta variant of the new Corona virus, or B.1.617.2, which was first discovered in India, is known to spread more quickly. In 2021, this virus has also been found in Indonesia.
Impact of Corona Virus Mutation on Disease Severity
Although the mutated Corona virus is easier to reproduce in the body, there is no evidence that this viral mutation can cause more severe COVID-19 symptoms. The severity of Corona virus infection is still strongly influenced by the age factor and the presence or absence of comorbidities.
Impact of Corona Virus Mutation on Vaccine Development
Research shows that the antibody response produced by the body from the vaccine being developed is also effective against the Corona virus with the D614G mutation. One experiment instead showed that viruses with this mutation were easier to neutralize. However, further research still needs to be done.
So far, the impact of the D614G mutation on the development of the COVID-19 pandemic is unclear. So, we should stay calm and sort wisely the information we get.
In addition, take this fact about the mutation of the Corona virus as a reminder not to relax the COVID-19 prevention protocol. Keep applying physical distancing, wear a mask, and wash your hands before touching the face area.
If you experience symptoms of Corona virus infection, such as fever, cough, shortness of breath, muscle aches, sore throat, or chest pain, immediately self-isolate and contact hotline COVID-19 at 119 Ext. 9 for further guidance.
You can also use the Corona virus risk check feature, which is provided free of charge by ALODOKTER, to find out how likely you are to have been infected with this virus. If you have questions about COVID-19 or other health problems, you can chat directly with the doctor through the ALODOKTER application.
