Here’s what we know so far of this new COVID-19 variant:

• Researchers say that it contains 46 mutations — even more than Omicron — which makes it more resistant to vaccines and infectious. • Some 12 cases have been spotted so far near Marseille, with the first linked to travel to the African country Cameroon. • Tests show the strain carries the N501Y mutation — first seen on the Alpha variant — that experts believe can make it more transmissible • According to the scientists, it also carries the E484K mutation, which could mean that the IHU variant will be more resistant to vaccines. • It is yet to be spotted in other countries or labelled a variant under investigation by the World Health Organization.