> This number of mutations isn't enough to completely change the mechanics of the virus. Maybe. Maybe not. The majority of the mutations in the B.1.1.529 genom

> This number of mutations isn't enough to completely change the mechanics of the virus. Maybe. Maybe not. The majority of the mutations in the B.1.1.529 genome are expressed as changes in the spike proteins but others are not and remain to be better understood. It is too early to tell what effects those remaining mutations will have on the lethality of this variant. If those mutations result in more efficient intracellular replication or other changes in intracellular viral life-cycle efficiency, then the morbidity and mortality may be greater, independent of immunologic escape.