Evolution of the viral genomes of SARS-CoV-2 in association with the changes in local condition: a genomic epidemiological study of a suburban city of Japan.

ABSTRACT: Understanding the factors driving the spread and evolution of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) at the local, regional, national, and international levels is important in protecting against future pandemics. By exploring their viral genomes, we attempted to analyse the spread of SARS-CoV-2 and its evolutionary convergence in Kashiwa City, as an example of a representative commuter town in Japan. From September 2020 to January 2023, a total of 47,134 nasopharyngeal swab and saliva specimens were collected from patients in 47 local clinics and hospitals, covering the vast majority of healthcare facilities. All SARS-CoV-2-positive samples were subjected to whole genome sequencing. Based on the analysis of 5,536 identified genomes, all major strains were represented.

SUBMITTER: Kashima Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10562954 | biostudies-literature | 2023 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature