[Jabbles]

But that question is far harder to answer than testing the viral proteins in a lab. You seem to be dismissing this research whilst suggesting they concentrate on something that is probably impossible, thankfully, due to the fact that this variant hasn't spread much.

[orra]

Sure, it's hard to test things in real world conditions, but that doesn't mean we should over extrapolate from in vitro findings. In particular, infecting cells easier in a lab doesn't mean the virus spreads from person to person easier.

Besides, the fact this variant hasn't spread much is telling in and of itself! Maybe we got 'lucky'. But maybe it just isn't that contagious, compared to Delta.

[SketchySeaBeast]

It is possible to determine, but only in hindsight, which is really the worst sort of possible.