Brazilian COVID-19 Variant May Pose Greatest Threat

A new variant to the novel coronavirus—referred to as P.1—emerged in December in Manaus, Brazil. Its high level of infectivity led to a steep rise in COVID-19 cases in the area. Public health officials are concerned due to P.1’s ability to spread so quickly and its inclusion of some of the more serious mutations. Experts also note that Manaus had already been overwhelmed by the novel coronavirus in April 2020. This second surge of the virus in December may indicate that P.1 is able to reinfect those who have recovered from COVID-19. Click here to read more.