SARS-CoV-2 variants

The original virus behind the COVID-19 pandemic, which emerged in 2019 in China.  Highly transmissible, infectious before symptoms, case fatality rate ~1% (primarily the elderly and those with underlying conditions).  Long-term effects among survivors include lung damage, circulatory system damage, nerve damage, and cognitive impairment.

Emerged in UK in 09/2020.  Some samples include the E484K mutation to lessen vulnerability to antibodies.  Thought to be 30-50% more transmissible than OG, and 55% more deadly as well.

First detected in South Africa in 12/2020.  Mutations to spike protein to better bind with human cells.  Includes the E484K mutation to lessen vulnerability to antibodies.  Spread in South Africa was rapid; estimated to be 50% more transmissible than OG.  It seems less affected by vaccines (particularly Astra-Zeneca/Oxford), but two-dose mRNA vaccines still offer good (72-75%) protection against infection and ~95% protection against severe disease / death.  J&J ~64% protection against infection, ~82% prevention of severe disease.  Native immunity following infection by other variants seems weaker against Beta, so vaccination is recommended.

Emerged in Brazil in (Oct.?) 2020.  Includes the E484K mutation to lessen vulnerability to antibodies.  Similar to Beta, mutations mean that acquired immunity following infection by OG or other variants may be less protective against Gamma, so vaccination is recommended.

First detected in India in 2020.  Most transmissible variant yet.  Victims are "younger and sicker."  Mutations include E484Q and L452R, and may weaken previous acquired immunities.

First detected in California in 2020.  The WHO reports two variants, B.1.427 and B.1.429, together under the name "Epsilon."  Includes L452R mutation.  Considered to be 20% more transmissible than OG, but has been out-competed by Alpha, Gamma, and Delta.

"Variant of Interest" found in New York 12/2020, perhaps descended from Alpha.  Includes E484K and Q677H mutations.

"Variant of Interest" first identified in the Philippines.

"Variant of Interest" found in New York 11/2020.  Two forms, one with E484K mutation, and one with S477N mutation.

"Variant of Interest."  First identified in Brazil.

"Variant of Interest" common in India.  Includes L452R mutation.

"Variant of Interest." First identified in Peru, 12/2020. 

First identified in South Africa, 11/2021.  Preliminary estimates: it's twice as transmissible as Delta, but may cause less severe illness (fewer hospitalizations, and fewer ICU visits).  Hopefully, it will spread acquired immunity without killing people.

"Variant of Interest."