What to Know About the New COVID Variants | SciShow News

The video discusses two new COVID-19 variants, B117 and B1351, highlighting their rapid spread and increased transmissibility. It explains virus mutations, particularly in the spike protein, and their potential impact on virus behavior. Despite concerns, current vaccines are expected to remain effective. The video emphasizes the importance of continued health measures and scientific research to manage these variants.

What is a common characteristic of viral mutations?

• They are always beneficial to the virus.

• They occur only in the spike protein.

• They often don't change the virus's behavior significantly.

• They always make the virus more deadly.

What is the main concern with the B117 and B1351 variants?

• They only affect older adults.

• They are resistant to all vaccines.

• They have accumulated a large number of mutations suddenly.

• They are more deadly than the original virus.

How do the new variants potentially increase transmissibility?

• By decreasing the virus's ability to replicate.

• By increasing the number of viruses in respiratory samples.

• By reducing the viral load in infected individuals.

• By making people immune to the virus.

What role does the spike protein play in the virus's ability to infect cells?

• It prevents the virus from replicating.

• It destroys the host cell's DNA.

• It makes the virus invisible to the immune system.

• It helps the virus stick to and enter host cells.

Why are scientists concerned about the South African variant, B1351?

• It has no mutations in the spike protein.

• It only affects animals.

• It is less contagious than other variants.

• It has additional mutations that might affect vaccine efficacy.

What is the recommended public health response to the new variants?

• Only wear masks indoors.

• Follow health guidelines and get vaccinated.

• Ignore them and continue as normal.

• Panic and avoid all social interactions.

What is the primary focus of ongoing research regarding the new variants?

• Developing new types of masks.

• Understanding their impact on vaccine efficacy.

• Creating a new virus strain.

• Finding ways to make the virus more contagious.