COVID-19 virus variants in Ireland - new summary report published
The new summary report on COVID-19 virus variants in Ireland includes whole genome sequencing (WGS) carried out by the National Virus Reference Laboratory (NVRL) and partners. Current whole genome sequencing capacity is approximately 1,000 specimens per week.
The report summarises whole genome sequencing and epidemiological data for COVID-19 cases that have been sequenced in Ireland since week 51 2020. Epidemiological data on these cases have been extracted from CIDR. CIDR is a dynamic system and case details may be updated at any time. Therefore, the data described in the report may differ from previously reported data and data reported for the same time period in the future.
The first variant of concern (VOC) case (B.1.1.7 (UK^)) was detected in Ireland in week 51 2020 (week starting December 13th). The proportion of COVID-19 cases with sequencing results has continued to increase over time, with 17% of all cases sequenced between week 8 and week 14 2021. Cases of three variants of concern (VOC) have been identified in Ireland to date; B.1.1.7 (UK), B.1.351 (South Africa) and P.1 (Brazil). Five variants of interest have also been identified; P.2 (Brazil), B.1.525 (Nigeria) and B.1.526 (New York), A.27 (first identified in Mayotte – French overseas Department) and B.1.429 (California). Other variants of note to have been identified in Ireland are; three cases of B.1.617 (India) and 36 cases of B.1.318 (UK).
To read the latest report in full go to: Summary of COVID-19 virus variants in Ireland