New COVID-19 variant, BV-1, identified in Texas A&M laboratory indicates possible resistance to antibodies

COLLEGE STATION, Texas (KTRK) – Scientists at the Texas A&M University Global Health Complex have identified a new variant of the COVID-19 virus that, according to a statement, could pose a new public health challenge.

So far, the new variant, “BV-1”, has been found in only one case: an individual who had mild symptoms, according to Texas A&M scientists.

“We do not currently know the full meaning of this variant, but it contains a combination of mutations similar to other internationally notifiable variants,” said Ben Neuman, chief virologist of the GHRC. “This variant combines genetic markers separately that are associated with rapid spread, serious diseases and high resistance to neutralizing antibodies.”

The scientists said they have a need to share with the public because other laboratories show that neutralizing antibodies are not effective in controlling other variants with the same genetic markers as BV-1.

“We have not detected any more cases of this variant,” Neuman said. “We have not grown or tested this virus in any way. This announcement is based solely on the genetic sequence analysis done in the laboratory.”

BV-1 is related to the British variant of SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19.

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The “BV” stands for Brazos Valley, where Texas A&M and GHRC are located.

According to a release, GHRC first detected BV-1 in a saliva sample taken from a Texas A&M student as part of the university’s ongoing COVID-19 testing program. The sample was tested positive on 5 March. It has been re-tested and confirmed in a federally regulated laboratory in the CHI St. Joseph Regional Hospital. The student lives outside the campus, but is active in organizations on campus.

The student later gave a second sample that tested positive on March 25, suggesting that the variant may cause a long-term infection. A third sample taken on April 9 was negative and did not reveal any evidence of virus.

The student showed mild, cold-like symptoms for the first few weeks. The symptoms only completely disappeared on April 2nd.

Neuman said the scientists will continue to monitor for more cases of the variant.

“Sequence helps to provide an early warning system for new variants,” he said. “Although we may not yet understand the full meaning of BV-1, the variant emphasizes a continuing need for strict surveillance and genomic testing, even among young adults with no symptoms or only mild symptoms.”

The video above comes from a previous story.