In the first quarter of 2021, companies that produce vaccines have rolled out several batches for different countries to use. These vaccines are to address the pandemic brought upon by SARS-CoV-2 that caused COVID-19. But experts say that it would take several years before all people could get vaccinated, knowing that there are people who are unwilling to accept and that children are more likely to get vaccinated last.
As all these take place, three new strains from the COVID-19 virus appeared, and experts are clear that these variants have the potential to spread faster.
The three new variants
In the same quarter of 2021 of vaccine production is the discovery of the mutated versions of COVID-19. These are B.1.1.7 identified in the UK, the B.1.351 found in South Africa, and the P.1 variant identified in Brazil. Health experts are concerned about the easy transmission of this virus but are less lethal than the earlier version of the virus.
At this point, people wish for the pandemic to dissipate, but the truth is that the virus could stick for some time. With that, we can only depend on following health protocols, our immunity, fit to fly COVID test for travelers, and the vaccine to protect us from potential infection.
So don’t be afraid to take protection for yourselves or even ask for “where could the nearest PCR test near me be?”. Get tested and stay updated with the current information about the new variant through this Harley Medic International infographic.
