Archive | 2021
Predominance of SARS-CoV-2 P.1 (Gamma) lineage inducing the recent wave in southern Brazil and the finding of an additional S: D614A mutation
Abstract
\n Since the first SARS-CoV-2 case in China in late 2019, this virus continues to impact many countries worldwide. Recently, the highest wave of SARS-CoV-2 epidemic was registered in Rio Grande do Sul (RS) State, Southern Brazil, considering the number of cases, deaths and hospitalization per day caused by COVID-19. In this study we described which lineages were circulating in the beginning of 2021 in southern Brazil to understand the cause of the highest health crisis caused by SARS-CoV-2 in the region, searching also possible additional SARS-CoV-2 sequence mutation. A total of 71 positive SARS-CoV-2 samples collected between December 15th, 2020, until April 23rd, 2021, were selected to sequencing. The samples were from 16 cities distributed in three RS regions. The library preparation was performed according to QIAseq® SARS-CoV-2 Primer Panel Handbook kit, and phylogenetic analysis was realized. Whole genome sequencing of 71 SARS-CoV-2 samples shows a predominance of Gamma lineage (67.14%, 47/71), followed by Zeta lineage (27.14%, 20/71) and B.1.1.28 (5,71%, 4/71). Two Gamma lineage consensus sequences presented a D614A mutation. Newly mutations could be emerging due the quick SARS-CoV-2 spreading. Thus, the greater understanding about immune protection and variants vigilance is essential to the better management of the health SARS-CoV-2 crisis.