As stated by the National Institute of Health (NIH), the South African and Brazilian variants have been identified in Islamabad yesterday. The variant is highly contagious and has created havoc in Brazil and South Africa.

The South African variant known as B.1.315 is considered to be more contagious as it carries a mutation, called N501Y, making it easier to spread.

According to the studies carried by the scientists, the Brazil’s P1 variant mutates in ways that makes it better to evade the antibodies and is more resistant to antibodies. Its also been identified that P1 variant is 2.5 times more contagious than the original coronavirus.

Previously the same variants have been identified in Karachi. The health care system is already under pressure as ventilators and beds are not enough. In view of these factors and with detection of new variants, the health ministry has urged the public to strictly follow the SOPs and stay indoor.