CDC Report: Variant BA.2.86 Detected in US Wastewater, Early Testing Shows

Preliminary testing of wastewater in the United States has detected the new highly mutated coronavirus variant BA.2.86, according to a risk assessment by the CDC. The variant has been reported in multiple countries, indicating international transmission. It has more than 30 gene changes from its closest ancestor and may be a neutralization antibody escape mutant. While it is not yet clear how prevalent the variant is or if it will outcompete other variants, scientists are working to understand its behavior and impact on immunity. The CDC advises continuing to follow preventive measures and states that current tests and antiviral drugs are expected to work against the variant.