New Coronavirus Variants — What You Should Know

Through mutation, new strains and variants can be expected to show up overtime — this phenomenon is why the flu vaccine is needed to be received every year. Throughout the pandemic, the virus that causes COVID has already mutated into multiple variants throughout the world.

The virus that causes COVID is a type of coronavirus. This is a large family of viruses that cause illnesses such as the common cold, severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS), and middle east respiratory syndrome (MERS). The structure of these viruses is known for their crown-like spikes on its surface — thus earning its name coronavirus; scientists study and monitor these spikes and genetically analyze the virus to figure out how changes to its structure may affect the spread and how infections are manifested in those infected.

New Global Variants

1. Variant B.1.1.7, identified in the United Kingdom, had a large number of mutations in fall of 2020. It spreads more easily and quickly than other variants and it was reported by experts that this variant may be associated with an increased risk of death, though this needs more study to provide confirmation. It was detected in the United States for the first time at the end of December 2020.

2. In South Africa a new variant was discovered in early October 2020 called B.1.351. This variant shares some of the same mutations as variant B.1.1.7. Cases were found in the United States at the end of January 2021.

3. The P.1 variant was first discovered in Brazil. Brazilian travelers were at the mandatory screening gate while arriving in Japan in early January 2021 when it was first detected. This variant seems to have mutations that can affect its ability to be recognized by antibodies. By the end of January 2021, the first case emerged in the United States.

These three variants have seemed to spread quicker and easier than other known variants, thereby creating more covid cases which lead to more hospitalizations, a greater shortage of resources, increased strain on healthcare workers and potentially death. Studies are showing that the current approved vaccines can recognize these variants, but it is still being monitored.

Because there are still unknown confirmed variables to the new variants — like how far they have spread, how the disease caused differs from other known variants and how it affects existing vaccines, tests, and therapies — it is recommended to continue following the CDCs guidelines to COVID protection: Proper hand washing, maintaining a clean and sanitized space, wearing masks (and even double masking which has proved to provide more protection against the virus) and social distancing are still the best ways to keep yourself protected.

About Us

Here at HealthNeed Medical Urgent Care, our main goal is to provide an easy and friendly walk-in experience that will have you face to face with one of our many medical specialists within minutes of checking in and without an appointment. Our team of medical experts offers treatments anywhere from bandaging small scrapes and cuts to IVs. Come check out our offices that are open 365 days a year. We provide pediatric as well as senior medical care, with most health insurances accepted.

Queens Crossing
38–21 Main St, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354

Wheelchair Accessible Entrance:
136–17 39th Ave, Suite 1A
Flushing, NY 11354

Phone: (718) 888–1808

Terms of Use and Disclaimer — The information contained in this document has been culled from online resources and government agencies and is for general informational purposes only. The information is provided in good faith to support the community and our friends impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. We makes no representation or warranty of any kind, express or implied, regarding the accuracy or completeness of the information contained herein. Your use of this document and your reliance on the information contained herein is solely at your own risk. All liability with respect to any reader, user or browser’s reliance on this document and/or actions taken or not taken based on the contents of this document is hereby expressly disclaimed.