An Overview of the Genetic Variations of the SARS-CoV-2 Genomes Isolated in Southeast Asian Countries
Polly Soo Xi Yap, Tse Siang Tan, Yoke Fun Chan, Kok Keng Tee, Adeeba Kamarulzaman, Cindy Shuan Ju Teh
Abstract
Human mobility (in parentheses) is one of the main factors that contribute to the worldwide dissemination of microorganisms. The spread of coronavirus disease 2019 was recently reported to transmit to neighboring countries with relocation diffusion With most of the studies focusing on China, Western Europe and the USA, little is known about its evolution and genome variability in Southeast Asian (SEA) countries. SEA is home to more than half a billion or 9% of the world's population. As the region grapples with a surge in infection cases since March 2020 [2], it is important to investigate purported mutations and the role of geographical proximity in shaping the genetic structure of the SARS-CoV-2 in SEA countries. On March 4, 2020, the World Health Organisation (WHO) outlined that only nine of the eleven countries have the capacity to test for , suggesting that the lack of testing facilities could hinder the preparedness and response planning of these countries towards COVID-19.