First Identification of the New Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 Omicron Variant (B.1.1.529) in Italy
Valeria Micheli, Fiorenza Bracchitta, Alberto Rizzo, Alessandro Mancon, Davide Mileto, Alessandra Lombardi, Paola Stefanelli, Maria Rita Gismondo
Abstract
We identified the first case in Italy of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) B.1.1.529 variant, using whole-genome sequencing in an Italian subject traveling from Mozambique. Specific mutation profiles deserve further investigations to clarify potential effects on vaccination efficacy. This case highlights the crucial role of rapid and continuous surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variant circulation.
Topics & Concepts
MedicineCoronavirusSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2)VirologyCoronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)Identification (biology)2019-20 coronavirus outbreakVaccinationBetacoronavirusMutationCoronavirus InfectionsRespiratory systemSevere acute respiratory syndrome coronavirusImmunologyPneumoniaRespiratory diseasePandemicDNA sequencingSARS-CoV-2 and COVID-19 ResearchCOVID-19 Clinical Research StudiesImmune responses and vaccinations