Variants of Concern of SARS-CoV-2: A Review

Page: 501-510
Shakila Mahesh, Juhi Singhla, Jigyasa Gupta, Manya Jain, Nitik Baisoya, and Ramya Shanta (Manav Rachna Dental College, FDS, MRIIRS, Faridabad, Haryana)

The SARS-CoV-2 virus has infected innumerable individuals and continues to result in numerous unintended fatalities throughout the world. The Coronaviridae family includes the beta coronavirus that causes SARS-CoV-2. Over the past few months, novel spike protein mutations have become more prevalent in clinically important variants. These alterations cause the host immune system to stop recognising them. The current version of concern, according to WHO, contains the following: Alpha (B.1.1.7 9), Beta (B.1.351), Delta (B.1.617), Gamma (P.1), and Omicron (BA.1). These variants have several mutations in common with an increasing SARS-CoV-2 Variants that have just been discovered. Immune system invasion and vaccination evasion are caused by spike protein mutations. Increased transmissibility, mortality, morbidity, and possibly delayed diagnosis and treatment are the results of these impacts. The present review article discusses the numerous variants of SARS-CoV-2 with a prime focus on the Variants of Concern as per WHO. The article provides insights into the structural mutations, disease severity, and vaccine efficacy of the variants. The ongoing monitoring and control of these variants are crucial for preventing and controlling the spread of the virion.