Scientists in South Africa say they have detected a new Covid-19 variant with multiple mutations, blaming it for a surge in infection numbers, reports AFP.

“Unfortunately we have detected a new variant which is a reason for concern in South Africa,” virologist Tulio de Oliveira told a hastily-called news conference.

The variant, which goes by the scientific lineage number B.1.1.529, “has a very high number of mutations,” he said. “It's unfortunately causing a resurgence of infections.”

It has also been detected in Botswana and Hong Kong among travellers from South Africa, he said.