COVID-19: Newest variant B.1.X, also known as B.1.640 discovered

Europe has yet another mutation, this time with changes scientists have never seen.

The variant was first written about in a French newspaper in October, but only a few cases were seen in the United Kingdom, Switzerland, Scotland and Italy.

It’s believed that the variant isn’t spreading because the Delta variant is still dominating countries across the world.

Mutations in this variant include a mutation in the spike protein. This one has deletions that may make it harder for the vaccine to notice it’s in the body before it attaches to human cells.

The variant most likely came from Africa, where they have little access to vaccines. This makes it easier for mutations to occur.

Cases are surging in Europe right now and experts say it could be due to a mutation that has yet to be identified.

Related: COVID-19: Experts warn of new variant spreading across the globe