I understand PHE and other UK health bodies have been investigating new potential mutations in different parts of the UK and adopting extensive contact tracing where they have arisen. I'm told these mutations were discussed by NERVTAG at their most recent meeting.
One (based in Liverpool) contains the mutation (E484K) common in the South Africa/Brazil strains (it's not believed to have been imported but instead developed here). We're not talking about a huge number but instead a few dozen cases based in one hospital.
Nothing to be hugely worried about at the moment but a reminder as one scientist put it to me, that this "could be the year of the variant." The virus is under a lot of selection pressure and big challenge could be to stay ahead of it, especially with regard to vaccines.
PHE told me: "We are currently investigating a cluster of cases in Liverpool of COVID-19. All cases are linked, and further genome testing and public health investigations are underway."
"The best way to stop the spread of the virus is to follow the basic measures – wash our hands, wear a face covering and keep our distance from others. Whilst in lockdown, it is important that we also stay at home where possible."
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