South African scientists believe that the new Covid-19 mutant found in the country is likely to be more transmissible, may hit young age group harder, and maybe slightly more resistant to vaccines. South African new strain, called the 501.V2 Variant, was first discovered in South African province Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal and Western Cape.

South African Health Minister Dr Zweli Mkhize revealed the new COVID-19 strain has three mutations and has spread in South Africa. The first case of this COVID-19 mutant was reported in Nelson Mandela Bay. This new coronavirus strain has affected many young people and those with no pre-existing health conditions are also been affected. Dr Richard Lessells, a renowned infectious diseases expert in South Africa, said the existing vaccines potential against this variant could not be ascertained. Another thing of more concern was the possibility of reinfection in those people who have already contracted coronavirus. 

Eight countries have so far closed doors to passengers coming from South Africa due to the new strains spread. Germany, Turkey, Israel, Switzerland, the UK, Uzbekistan and the Netherlands aren’t permitting any flights from South Africa to enter their country. South African Health Minister Zweli Mkhize said that people with no symptoms have been testing positive for the virus, adding, "The evidence that has been collated, therefore, strongly suggests that the current second wave we are experiencing is being driven by this new variant," reported a news agency. 

South Africa new Covid 19 variant detected in UK , UK Health Secretary

WHO experts to meet over new Variant, EU ease travel bans

S.Africa Covid 19 cases increase due to Covid 19 new variant, diff from UK Variant