The World Health Organization (WHO) is in close contact with UK authorities to discover a new strain of coronavirus and keep the public informed of its characteristics as data becomes available.
WHO notes that London will continue sharing information and the results of analysis and ongoing research.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson said the new COVID-19 strain is spreading 70% faster than the old type of coronavirus.
Weâre in close contact with UK officials on the new #COVID19 virus variant. Theyâll continue to share info & results of their analysis & ongoing studies. Weâll update Member States & public as we learn more about the characteristics of this virus variant & any implications.
— World Health Organization (WHO) (@WHO) December 19, 2020
The new strain of coronavirus currently accounts for over 60% of new infections in London, UK health officials said.
The new strain of coronavirus was discovered in the UK, South Africa and Australia.
