Understanding Covid Variants: Since the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic, various variants of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) have emerged. Some of these variants are particularly significant due to their potential for increased transmissibility, virulence, or a reduction in the effectiveness of vaccines.
As of now, five major SARS-CoV-2 variants have been classified as variants of concern (VOC) by the World Health Organization: Alpha, Beta, Gamma, Delta, and Omicron. This list highlights the ongoing evolution of the virus and the importance of monitoring these variants closely.
Covid Variants Overview
This section provides a detailed overview of the worrisome variants of SARS-CoV-2.
| WHO Label | Pango Lineage | GISAID Clade | Nextstrain Clade | Amino Acid Changes | Earliest Documented Samples | Date of Designation |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Alpha | B.1.1.7 | GRY | 20I (V1) | +S:484K +S:452R | United Kingdom, Sep-2020 | 18-Dec-2020 |
| Beta | B.1.351 | GH/501Y.V2 | 20H (V2) | +S:L18F | South Africa, May-2020 | 18-Dec-2020 |
| Gamma | P.1 | GR/501Y.V3 | 20J (V3) | +S:681H | Brazil, Nov-2020 | 11-Jan-2021 |
| Delta | B.1.617.2 | G/478K.V1 | 21A, 21I, 21J | +S:417N +S:484K | India, Oct-2020 | VOI: 4-Apr-2021 VOC: 11-May-2021 |
| Omicron* | B.1.1.529 | GRA | 21K, 21L, 21M | +S:R346K | Multiple countries, Nov-2021 | VUM: 24-Nov-2021 VOC: 26-Nov-2021 |
Details on Covid Variants
- The genetic lineage of SARS-CoV-2 is continually monitored worldwide as new varieties emerge.
- In the United States, SARS-CoV-2 genetic lineages are observed using various methods, including epidemiological studies and virus sequencing.
- Omicron was officially classified as a Variant of Concern (VOC) on November 30, 2021, based on its widespread transmission and other related factors.
- The following classes of SARS-CoV-2 variants are defined by the CDC:
- Variants Being Monitored (VBM)
- Variant of Interest (VOI)
- Variant of Concern (VOC)
- Variant of High Consequence (VOHC)
- Monitoring current VBM in the United States.
- No current variants are designated as VOI.
- View current VOC being monitored.
- No variants of high consequence are designated.
For more detailed information about Covid variants, visit the World Health Organization at WHO Tracking page.
Also Read:
COVID 19 Vaccine Name List | Coronavirus Approved Vaccines List Worldwide
