BBC: New UK variant 'may be more deadly'

[yaesu]

Early evidence suggests the variant of coronavirus that emerged in the UK may be more deadly, Prime Minister Boris Johnson said.

The data has been assessed by scientists on the New and Emerging Respiratory Virus Threats Advisory Group, which has briefed government.

The new variant appears to be around 30% more deadly.

For example, with 1,000 60-year-olds infected with the old variant, 10 of them might be expected to die. But this rises to around 13 with the new variant.

https://www.bbc.com/news/health-55768627

[roamer65]

1. Not surprised.

Increased viral load will increase deaths.

Still it’s no where near the MERS death rate of near 40 pct.