Texas A&M scientists identify new variant of coronavirus called BV-1

COLLEGE STATION, Texas Scientists at Texas A&M University have identified a new variant of the coronavirus.

The variant was discovered by researchers from the school’s Global Health Research Complex. It is called the BV-1 variant because of its origin in the Brazos Valley, scientists said.

The case was identified in a saliva sample taken from an A&M student off campus on March 5, and the student tested positive again on March 25. than is typical for COVID-19. The student developed only mild, cold symptoms and the symptoms were resolved by April 2nd.

Scientists have said that this variant is of concern because of its genetic makeup.

“We do not currently know the full meaning of this variant, but it does contain a combination of mutations similar to other internationally reportable variants,” said Ben Neuman, chief virologist of the HRC, in a news release issued by the school. is. “This variant combines genetic markers separately that are associated with rapid spread, serious diseases and high resistance to neutralizing antibodies.”

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The A&M student in whom the variant was found is the only case of the variant reported so far, scientists said.

“Although we may not yet understand the full meaning of BV-1, the variant emphasizes a continuing need for strict supervision and genomic testing, even among young adults with no symptoms or only mild symptoms,” Neuman said.

According to the website Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, five variants of COVID-19 have been identified. This would be the sixth.