A new variant of COVID–19 has been detected in the United Kingdom, Australia and South Africa. The South African one is Called 501.V2.

It seems to spread more quickly, with higher viral loads than the original virus.

It is believed to be driving South Africa’s second wave of the infection.

UK and Australia new variants are uncommon, South Africa’s 501.V2 variant is widespread.

Two of the mutations in the new South African variant reduce virus sensitivity to some antibodies

These mutations were not seen in new variants in the UK and Australia.