As of September 20, 2023, the latest mutation of the COVID virus is BA.2.86.

It has been detected in a small number of samples from infected people and waste (sewer) water in several countries, including the 

United States, 

Denmark, 

Israel, 

South Africa, and the 

United Kingdom.

BA.2.86 is a subvariant of Omicron and is more genetically different from the original Omicron variant than previous subvariants have been. 

It has over 35 amino acid changes compared with the more recently circulating 

XBB.1.5 variant. 

This number of genetic differences is roughly of the same magnitude as seen between the initial Omicron variant (BA.1) and previous variants, such as Delta (B.1.617.2).

It is too early to say whether BA.2.86 is more transmissible or causes more severe disease than other Omicron variants.

However, the fact that it has so many genetic changes is concerning to public health experts. They are closely monitoring the spread of BA.2.86 and its impact on the pandemic.

These genetic changes are located throughout the virus's genome, including in the spike protein, which is the part of the virus that binds to cells and allows it to enter the body.

Some of the specific genetic changes in BA.2.86 include:

A mutation in the receptor binding domain (RBD) of the spike protein, which could make the virus better able to bind to human cells and cause infection.

Mutations in other parts of the spike protein that could help the virus evade antibodies from vaccination or previous infection.

Mutations in other parts of the virus that could affect its transmissibility, severity, or response to antiviral treatments.

It is important to note that scientists are still learning about the implications of these genetic changes. 

It is too early to say whether BA.2.86 will be more transmissible or cause more severe disease than other Omicron variants. 

However, the fact that it has so many genetic changes is concerning to public health experts.

They are closely monitoring the spread of BA.2.86 and its impact on the pandemic. In the meantime, it is important to stay up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccinations and boosters, wear a mask in public indoor settings, and get tested if you have symptoms of COVID-19.

Unlikely Buddha 2023