The first cases of a new COVID-19 variant of concern have been confirmed in Ireland.
The BA.4 and BA.5 variants were first identified in South Africa in February and are a sub-variant of Omicron.
Professor of Experimental Immunology at Trinity College Dublin Kingston Mills says it's unlikely to cause a major surge in cases here.
"I don't think we have to be hugely concerned.
"it is different somewhat from Omicron and BA.2 in that it has mutated further, and it means the vaccines are struggling to contain the infection.
"But the good news is that the vaccines will still prevent severe disease with this and other variants."
