Originally published August 24, 2023 2:00 pm PDT
In a Wednesday press release, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has drawn attention to a newly detected SARS-CoV-2 variant, named BA.2.86, that could possibly have a higher capability of infecting individuals “who have previously had COVID-19 or who have received COVID-19 vaccines.”
That new variants could render vaccinations ineffective raises questions about the justification for receiving the jab. In fact, a recently published peer-reviewed study in the journal Open Forum Infectious Diseases has confirmed that the risk of contracting COVID-19 is higher among those who have received more COVID vaccines.
Stressing the nature of viruses, the CDC press release explains, “All viruses, including the virus that causes COVID-19 (SARS-CoV-2), change over time. These viruses with changes are called ‘variants.'”
It is through this evolution that BA.2.86 (also called “Pirola”) has emerged, showcasing “multiple genetic differences from previous versions of SARS-CoV-2.”
The detection of this variant was initially in “samples from people in Denmark and Israel,” and there have since been “at least two cases… identified in the United States.”
With public concern expectedly high, the CDC was keen to emphasize that “existing tests used to detect and medications used to treat COVID-19 appear to be effective with this variant.”
However, the potentially heightened risk of infection for those previously affected or vaccinated against COVID-19 remains a concerning aspect of this new variant and the Biden administration’s vaccination push on Americans.
While research and study are still underway, the CDC’s “current assessment is that this updated vaccine will be effective at reducing severe disease and hospitalization.”
Providing an apparent sense of relief, the release continues, “At this point, there is no evidence that this variant is causing more severe illness.”
The CDC notes that the assessment “may change as additional scientific data are developed.”
The health organization promised to “share more as we know more.”
Over 81% of the American population has already been vaccinated against COVID, according to CDC data last updated in May.
This means that the new coronavirus surge comes after most of those in the U.S. received at least one vaccine, raising more questions about the shot’s efficacy.
