SARS-CoV-2 Genetic Variants Identified in Selected Regions of Ethiopia Through Whole Genome Sequencing: Insights from the Fifth Wave of COVID-19.

ABSTRACT:

Background

The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted SARS-CoV-2 variants with increased transmissibility and immune evasion. In Ethiopia, where cases surged, the understanding of the virus's dynamics was limited. This study analyzed SARS-CoV-2 variants during the fifth wave, crucial for guiding vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and understanding disease severity.

Method

From June to August 2022, 150 SARS-CoV-2-positive samples were randomly selected from the Ethiopian Public Health Institute repository. Sixty-three high-quality genome sequences were analyzed.

Results

Of the 63 sequences, 70% were from males and 30% from females, with a median age of 34. Omicron dominated (97%, 61/63), primarily clade 22A (64%, 40/63), followed by 22B (18%, 11/63) and 21K (14%, 9/63). Delta

SUBMITTER: Hailu G 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC11942139 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Mar

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature