COVID-19 variant originating from the UK identified in 60 nations across the globe
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on January 20, 2021, that the UK variant of COVID-19, known as VOC-202012/01, had been identified in 60 countries and territories. This data point, which is commonly referenced in WHO situation reports and announcements regarding variant tracking early in 2021, reflects the rapid global spread of this variant by that time.
The VOC-202012/01 strain, which is more transmissible than the original strain, has been detected in ten more states, territories, and regions since January 12. The report does not specify which ten new regions the strain has been identified in, but cases have been reported from across six WHO regions.
The nature of the disease caused by the VOC-202012/01 strain is not different from the original strain. However, the increased transmissibility of the UK variant has raised concerns about the potential for a faster spread of the virus.
The information was reported in the WHO's weekly bulletin and was also reported by Almaty.tv, citing Regnum.ru. As of now, the information has been received from 60 countries, territories, and regions.
It is important to note that the cases of the UK variant may be either imported or evidence of local transmission. As the pandemic continues to evolve, it is crucial to remain vigilant and adhere to public health guidelines to help slow the spread of the virus.
The UK variant is one of the earliest and most widespread variants of concern, and its rapid global spread highlights the importance of international cooperation in tracking and responding to the pandemic. The WHO continues to monitor the situation closely and will provide updates as more information becomes available.
The rapid spread of the more transmissible UK variant of COVID-19, VOC-202012/01, has been confirmed in various medical-conditions around the world, with 60 countries and territories reporting cases. Despite the increased transmissibility, the health-and-wellness implications of this variant are not fundamentally different from the original strain, but its quick spread has ignited concerns of faster virus propagation.
