A possible outbreak of the Brazilian strain of coronavirus in Extremadura

The Brazilian variant, known as such because it appeared in the Amazon region of Brazil, is being studied to analyse its transmission capacity and virulence.

Three samples have been found in the north of Cáceres in Extremadura, Spain. They originated in Portugal. The person carrying the virus travelled from Brazil for work purposes.

Its detection was motivated by a mass screening carried out by the health service of Cáceres. Three members of the same family are currently isolated. When evidence of the Brazilian strain was detected, samples were immediately sent to Madrid, to the National Centre of Microbiology in Majadahonda.

The case is now under control and there are no indications that it is likely to spread.

The Spanish Ministry of Health reported a few days ago that the most important strains in Spain are British, South African and Brazilian. All three share a highly contagious mutation. The Brazilian strain, like the South African, escapes vaccine defences better.

For the moment, the most prevalent in Spain is still the British strain. However, following a decline in the figures for a few days, the number of infections is once again on the rise.

It is clear that we will have to maintain extreme security measures while the vaccination process is gaining ground against the virus.