Prof Ravi Gupta at the University of Cambridge: "This virus is potentially on a pathway for vaccine escape, it has taken the first couple of steps towards that."

Prof David Robertson, University of Glasgow: "The virus will probably be able to generate vaccine escape mutants."

This BBC article says it is "the most concerning element of what is happening with the virus".

Still can't find any info as to whether it produces the same, worse, or more moderate symptoms. A mutation that produces a less lethal virus is quite possible - in fact it's often how pandemics end.

What does this mean for current vaccines?

In their current form they will likely be rendered ineffective. No doubt the company scientists will make adjustments which may or may not counter these mutation - until the next mutation occurs.

The other question is, will these adjustments be subject to safety trials? Or will we just be winging it from here and hoping for the best?