Experts said if the new strain does not affect the susceptibility of the virus to the vaccines being developed, the efficacy of the vaccines might not be impacted significantly. “Mutations are common and we have seen it in case of influenza. The vaccine for influenza is thus altered accordingly and directions are issued for its administration as per the given instructions every year. Similarly, the COVID-19 vaccine may need to be altered accordingly to maintain its safety and efficacy,” said S Raju, an official from the State Public Health Laboratory.