Did the new Covid-19 variant evolve in a HIV positive patient?

The discovery of B.1.1.529, a new variant of coronavirus, has sent scientists, govts and doctors into a huddle as they formulate guidelines to contain its spread.

While it is widely being reported that the variant most likely originated in South Africa and that it was first found in Botswana, there is not much known about how the virus evolved.

The B.1.1.529 is known to have multiple mutations which scientists believe makes it a real cause of concern.

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The variant's origin is only a speculation till now. Francois Balloux, the Director of the UCL Genetics Institute in London believes it likely evolved during a chronic infection of an immuno-compromised person, possibly in an untreated HIV/AIDS patient.

As of Thursday there were almost 100 cases detected in South Africa, where it’s become the dominant strain among new infections.