The variant known as BA.2.86 is not one 'of concern', but scientists have said it carries a high number of mutations and is being monitored closely.
COVID and flu vaccines are rolling out across England today having been brought forward after a new coronavirus variant emerged in the UK.
The vaccines are being prioritised for people who are housebound or in care homes, though the UK Health Security Agency recommends the jab to over-65s, those with a weakened immune system, pregnant women and people who live with others in these high risk groups.Please use Chrome browser for a more accessible video playervariant, BA.2.86, has not been classified as a"variant of concern", however it is closely being monitored due to its proclivity to mutate.
Speaking to Sky News, UKHSA chief Susan Hopkins said the variant"is about 30 mutations compared to Omicron" when it emerged in December 2021, and around"50 mutations compared to the original wildtype virus" which started the pandemic. However, the health agency is unclear about its transmissibility, whether it causes an increased infectivity or severity.
The UKHSA cited a rise in COVID case numbers saying it was still"very small" with 3,000 people in hospital with the infection at any one time.