SA variant and escape mutation in SL variant detected

• Genetic sequencing done on 93 samples reveals variants 
• SA variant detected in overseas arrival but officials say spread potential minimal  
• More studies required on whether escape mutation variant could impact vaccine drive 

By Shailendree Wickrama Adittiya

Genetic sequencing carried out on 93 samples detected the South African B1-353 variant in an overseas arrival undergoing quarantine as well as an escape mutation in the Sri Lankan variant, which could affect the country’s vaccine drive.

According to Sri Jayewardenepura University’s Department of Immunology and Molecular Medicine Lecturer Dr. Chandima Jeewandara, the threat of the South African variant spreading in Sri Lanka is minimised by the quarantine measures implemented by the Health Ministry.

In addition to this, the B1 European lineage, UK variant, and the B1-133 Bangladesh-European strain have also been detected in samples collected from overseas arrivals. The UK variant was detected in four of the samples studied.

“During the genetic sequencing cycle carried out this time, we examined 93 samples, of which 82 were Sri Lankans. Eighty-one samples showed the Sri Lankan variant of B1-411,” Dr. Jeewandara said, adding that the remaining sample showed the European B1-428 variant and was collected from an individual from Wadduwa.

“One of the samples belonging to the B1-411 variant had a mutation, which is referred to as E484K. We see this as an important mutation because we call it an escape mutation, which is a mutation that can escape the immunity built,” he said.

This was of significance as it could affect the country’s vaccine drive as the mutation may reduce the effect of the vaccination. However, further studies are required on this, he said.

The samples were collected from across the country, including Mahiyanganaya, Avissawella, Pelmadulla, Eheliyagoda, Biyagama, Matale, Ratnapura, and Kalutara.