COVID variant Mu: where is it spreading? Do vaccines work? What you need to know about the new strain of coronavirus

The Mu variant, also known as B.1.621, is a strain of the COVID-19 virus that was initially discovered in Colombia in January 2021, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).

The WHO declared the strain a “variant of interest” and named it Mu on August 30, 2021.

Scientists say variant is worth watching due to prevalence of Mu in 39 countries and 49 US states

But a lot is still unknown about the Mu variant. It has not been labeled a “variant of concern,” which would only happen if reliable data shows the variant is heritable or features of concern like the Delta variant.

Here’s what you need to know about the Mu variant of COVID-19.

The Mu variant has spread to 49 states and Washington DC. The exception is Nebraska.

WHO officials said the Mu variant has appeared in 39 countries, with sporadic outbreaks in Europe and South America.

While much about the Mu variant is currently unknown, early studies suggest the strain is more resistant to antibodies from vaccines currently on the market.