SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern in the USA

Viruses constantly change through mutation, and new variants of a virus are expected to occur over time. Sometimes new variants emerge and disappear. Other times, new variants appear and start infecting people, says the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

As of February 25, 2021, the CDC reported the following number of SARS-CoV-2 variant cases confirmed in the USA:

• UK B.1.1.7 = 2,102
• South Africa B.1.351 = 49
• Brazil P.1 = 6

Recently, the JAMA published a study on February 17, 2021, focused on SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern in the United States: Challenges and Opportunities. This article concluded by saying, 'a concerted and well-coordinated public health effort is essential to remain ahead of the inevitable evolution of variants that could dangerously accelerate the trajectory of the COVID-19 pandemic.'