As the fear of the new UK variant, SARS-CoV-2 lurks around the corner, many people have given off the golden rules to be away from the virus; the mask and social distancing. The two new variants seem to have a mutated spike protein that makes it highly transmissible. It is also crucial to understand that, like any other RNA virus, SARS-CoV-2 continues to mutate. Both the strain was found in the UK until France, Spain, and Sweden confirmed the virus reached out to their nation. The emergence of a new variant resulted in restrictions on flights to the UK by over 50 countries. Growing shreds of evidence on the discovery of different strains of SARS-CoV-2 have put humans at higher risk. The virus has caused unprecedented damage to the economy and disrupted human society, infecting over 70 million and killing over 1.6 million people as of early December 2020. Usually, all RNA virus mutates, however, the process of alteration that helps the virus pathogenesis, virulence, and transmissibility remains poorly studied in humans. Reports on the emergence of the D614G mutation came as early as February 2020. Studies revealed that viruses with G614 form of the spike protein exhibit higher infectivity in cell lines. However, viruses with D614 form spike have a higher ability to bind with the hACE2 receptor — its entry point. The extent of damage it causes to the lungs can be very severe and may require rehabilitation treatment. For instance, a person chose to remain anonymous, has loosed one of his relative who died of COVID-19. The person tested positive and has undergone treatment. After which, he tested negative. But after the recovery, he was not doing well. He died after about 10-days and later found that around 80% of his lung tissue became damaged.
As the reports on the new coronavirus UK strain come from India, will India impose lockdown again? According to a study, the new variant is 50% more transmissible, which is a vague conclusion since the R naught factor remains unknown. Since we are still learning about the virus, India must alert the citizens and take strict measures to stop the spread of the new UK variant SAR-CoV-2. The ongoing farmer’s protest in India can create a dangerous situation in times to come. Therefore, early detection, tracking, and imposing strict rules are crucial in controlling the spread. Ironically, people hardly realize that we can never contain a virus if citizens do not comply with the precautionary measures — A teamwork in which citizens play a critical role.