The coronavirus variant that originated in the UK is likely to be more deadly than the original strain, according to a new assessment released by British government scientists on Friday.
In the report, which evaluated multiple studies, the scientists estimated that the strain, known as B.1.1.7, could be 30 to 70 percent more deadly than the original virus.
Studies have already shown that the British species is more transmissible and Prime Minister Boris Johnson announced last month that it may also be “associated with a higher rate of mortality.”
The review confirmed those concerns, but the scientists also said more comprehensive studies of deaths should be conducted.
Meanwhile, the more contagious variety is circulating around the world and the US. According to The New York TimesA study published earlier this month found that the British variety spread across the US so quickly that the number of cases involving that species doubled every ten days.
“These findings show that B.1.1.7 is likely to become the dominant variant in many US states by March 2021, leading to further increases in COVID-19 in the country unless urgent action is taken to mitigate its effects. to reduce, “said the newspaper.
The study also said the British variety is 35 to 45 percent more transmissible than other species that are spreading in the US. Scientists have also expressed concern that the variant could develop a mutation that would help it bypass vaccines.
It is not yet clear why the British variant may have a higher mortality rate. Scientists have said one possible reason is that people who become infected with it may have a higher viral load, or more of the virus in their bodies, which is linked to more serious COVID-19, Insider reported.
This article was originally published by Business Insider.
More from Business Insider: