Viral strains classification

The online-platform Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) reports on the 6 most common strains of the COVID-19 virus.

At the initial stages of the Asian epidemic, the l strain was identified, mutating into S and V strains.

In Europe, America, Africa, the most common strain of G, mutated into GR and GH.

The G strain is suggested as the most contagious. The place of its appearance is considered to be Europe. Then it gradually spread to North America, Oceania, and Asia. Within one month the G strain became dominant:

Date Infectious cases (in %)
Before March 1st 10%
March 31st 67%
From April 1st to May 18th 78%

G strain infection dynamics in South Korea

In South Korea, the first cases of the G strain were registered in early April. Many restrictive measures were lifted: opened shopping centers, clubs, religious facilities. The flow of international flights has increased. Those staying in the country with symptoms of COVID-19 were tested and sent to a 2-week quarantine. Visitors from Russia were found to have the GR strain, and those arriving from Europe and the United States had the GH strain.

The first cases of the G strain began to be registered in early April. Epidemiological investigations have shown that the first infections occurred in nightclubs. Later, there were patients infected with the new strain in shopping malls and religious centers. However, the majority of the G strain carriers were newcomers.

Throughout April, May, and June, the proportion of infections with the new strain was continuously increasing compared to the cases imported abroad.

In the period from June 22nd to July 6th, the share of G strain infections (caused by contacts within local groups (43.5%)) exceeded the number of imported cases from abroad. The percentage of new diagnoses among young people aged 20 to 30 years has also increased from 28.1% to 36.5%. the share of new cases among the population of 50+ has slightly decreased from 55.6% to 43%. The current mortality rate is 2.16%.

How to prevent the COVID-19 spread

In the scope of the current situation, the Center for Disease Control and Prevention recommends following the rules when conducting religious events:

  • Don’t sing or talk loudly. Replace the chorus with an accompaniment.
  • Do not eat or drink in religious institutions.
  • Observe a social distance of 2 meters, always wear a mask.
  • Disinfect ventilation before and after the events.
  • If possible, religious events should be held in a contactless format, such as an online meeting.

There are general recommendations for middle-aged and elderly people:

  • Refrain from visiting shopping malls and religious centers, meetings, and promotional events.
  • If you suspect COVID-19 symptoms, contact a screening clinic for an examination.

Sources

  1. Cell Magazine(Article)
  2. The Center for Disease Control and Prevention press release

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