The researchers of Netherlands have discovered a new HIV variant. It has been named as VB variant. It was lurking the country for a long period. The variant causes 3.5 times to 5.5 times higher levels of infection. However, there is no cause of alarm because of modern treatments.

About the VB variant

The recovery of immune system in VB variant is same as that of the other HIV variants. The variant emerged between 1980 and 1990 in Netherlands. However, it began to decline in 2010.

Inference from the discovery

Viruses evolve to become more virulent. Delta variant of COVID-19 is justifies the statement. Therefore, it is essential to widen the testing points. The widened HIV testing helps in early diagnosis. Therefore, one should never be overconfident about the evolution of viruses. Also, it wrong to assume that viruses evolve to become milder.

Virulent nature of the new variant

The VB variant has so far had 500 mutations. It is constantly evolving. Finding mutants is normal. However, it is not common to find new variant with unusual properties.

What is unique in VB variant?

The HIV kills the immune cells. It deteriorates the immune system. This is measured by monitoring the decline of CD4 T – cells. These cells are the primary target of HIV. And these cells play a major role in human immune system. In patients infected with VB variant, the CD4 decline is two times higher. This means the development of AIDS diseases is faster and vigorous.

What are CD4 T – cells?

These cells are called helper cells. These cells trigger the response of the body. They do not neutralise the infections.

Beehive Project

The variant was first identified under the Beehive project. The project monitors HIV samples collected from Uganda and Europe.

Current Scenario

The VB Variant is becoming less virulent in Uganda and more virulent in the US. The reason for the happening is not yet known.