UK scientists say COVID-19 variant likely linked to higher death risk

United Kingdom scientists have found the U.K. coronavirus variant is likely linked to a higher death risk than other coronavirus variants. 

A new document shows that there is evidence that the U.K. variant leads to more deaths and hospitalizations, but it is not clear why, The New York Times reported. 

It is not clear if the virus is more deadly because it has more of a viral load or if it is due to external factors like it being more prevalent in those who are more at risk for death with the virus. 

The coronavirus vaccines that are on the market are able to defend against the U.K. variant, but it is a cause of concern for many as vaccination rollouts have hit snags in some places around the world. 

The U.K. strand also spreads quicker than other variants, as the United States already has over 800 cases in 37 states. There are a known 82 other countries that have also seen the U.K. variant. 

Despite the variant transmitting faster and likely contributing to more hospitalizations, it is still uncommon for those who are young or are in good health to get seriously ill from the virus. 

Along with the U.K. strand, South Africa and Brazil also have their own strands of the coronavirus that are coming out. Those strands are in the U.S. as well but as are not as prevalent.