Turkish experts urge calm as new virus variant spreads

ANTALYA, Turkey

The world is in a panic since the emergence of a new coronavirus variant said to be more transmissible. It has prompted new restrictions and travel bans in many countries.

While scientists around the world gather more data if it has any impact on symptom severity, antibody response, or vaccine efficacy, Turkish medical experts have asked people not to fright, saying virus mutations are normal.

Derya Mutlu, a senior medical scientist at the Akdeniz University in Antalya, said mutations are the transformation of genes observed in every living being.

Claims that the new variant is more contagious are unproven yet, he said, adding that vaccination is the most efficient way to end the pandemic, along with complying with social distancing and other guidelines.

Ata Nevzat Yalcin, another senior medical scientist at the institution, agreed with Mutlu, saying that it is "too early to tell what kind of transformation COVID-19 might develop."

Alphan Kupesiz, who is also an expert at the university, said till there is more evidence on this, the treatment for COVID-19 will remain the same.

*Writing by Ahmet Gencturk