Texas A&M scientists are identifying a new variant of the coronavirus called BV-1

COLLEGE STATION, Texas – Scientists at Texas A&M University have identified a new variant of the coronavirus.

The variant was discovered by researchers at the school’s global health research complex. Scientists said it is called variant BV-1 because of its origins in the Brazos Valley.

The case was identified in a saliva sample extracted from an off-campus A&M student on March 5 and the student tested positive again on March 25. The scientists said this may indicate that the BV-1 variant causes a longer infection in adults aged 18 to 24 years. than is typical for COVID-19. The student suffered only mild, cold-like symptoms, and they resolved on April 2nd.

Scientists said this variant is worrisome because of its genetic makeup.

“We do not currently know the full meaning of this variant, but it has a combination of mutations similar to other variants of concern that can be reported internationally,” said Ben Neuman, chief virologist at the GHRC, in a statement released by the school. . “This variant combines genetic markers associated separately with rapid spread, serious disease, and high resistance to neutralizing antibodies.”

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The A&M students in which the variant was found is the only case of the variant that has been reported so far, the scientists said.

“While we may not yet understand the full meaning of BV-1, the variant highlights the continuing need for rigorous surveillance and genomic testing, including asymptomatic young adults or only mild symptoms,” Neuman said.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website, five variants of COVID-19 have been identified. This would be the sixth.