As of Wednesday, September 8, 2021, 42 countries have detected the presence of the Mu (B.1.621) variant of the Covid-19 coronavirus. The United States has the highest number of Mu variant sequences globally, with 1,742.
Colombia follows in second place with 947 Mu variant sequences. The variant was first discovered in Colombia on January 11, 2021, and subsequently spread to several countries in the Americas, Europe, and East Asia.
Spain detected 384 Mu variant sequences. Mexico and Ecuador found 359 and 170 sequences, respectively.
Furthermore, 108 Mu variant sequences were found in Canada, and 98 in Chile. Aruba, the Netherlands, and Italy reported 79, 72, and 66 sequences, respectively.
The WHO classifies the Mu variant as a variant of interest (VOI). According to WHO research, the Mu variant has the potential to evade the immune system, making it more resistant to vaccines.
The Mu variant's contribution to the total global number of coronavirus cases remains below 0.1%. However, the public should remain vigilant against this new coronavirus variant.
One way to do this is by diligently following the 3M health protocols: wearing a mask, maintaining social distancing, and washing hands with soap. In addition, people are urged to avoid crowds and reduce mobility.