The Genomic Landscape of SARS-CoV-2: Surveillance of Variants of Concern

Malick, M. Shaheen S.; Fernandes, Helen

Novel mutations that drive the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 variants, are constantly emerging. Given the acquired mutations of some of these variants compared to wild-type virus, identifying and monitoring variants through sequence-based surveillance is essential to control their spread. Prompt stratification of new variants into level of concern based on the mutational signatures, is important for understanding their response to current therapeutics and vaccines. Variants of concern have increased levels of infectivity, pathogenicity and transmissibility that enable the spread of the virus globally. Epidemiological investigations are extremely helpful for understanding the impact of these variants on the COVID-19 pandemic. Moreover, in light of recent surges in India and Brazil, by the Delta and Gamma variants respectively despite high levels of seroprevalance , current mathematical models for herd immunity may need to be re-evaluated.