Biology and genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2, the causative agent of COVID-19

ABSTRACT

The infection generated by SARS-CoV-2 has caused more than 200 million cases and 4.5 million deaths worldwide. SARS-CoV-2 has accumulated mutations that allow it to be classified into different lineages. Some of these lineages have been designated variants by the WHO under monitoring (VUM), of interest (VOI), or of concern (VOC). Methodology. Different strategies for genomic surveillance of these SARS-CoV-2 variants have been described in each country. In Venezuela, the strategies include the amplification of a fragment of the spike, PCR-RFLP, and sequencing of the complete viral genome, which has allowed us to monitor the introduction of VOCs and VOIs to the country. Results. By October 2021, in Venezuela, the circulation of three VOCs, Alpha, Gamma, and Delta, and the two VOIs (Lambda and Mu) have been described. Globally, the Delta variant predominates in practically all continents except some Latin American countries, although it is estimated that it will soon prevail in the region as well. Discussion. The circulation of variants in the countries is a very dynamic process and Venezuela does not escape from this reality;therefore, it is important to continue genomic surveillance of this virus. Copyright © 2021, Revista Salus. All rights reserved.