Detection of the new SARS-CoV-2 variant B.1.526 with the Spike E484K mutation in South America (preprint)

Here, we report two sequences of the new SARS-CoV-2 variant recently detected and designed as B.1.526. This variant carries the immune escape-associated mutation E484K and additional mutations in the S, N, NSP2, NSP3, NSP4, NSP6, NSP8, NSP12 and NSP13 genes. Viral sequences were obtained from an individual traveling from the US to Equator with a negative RT-PCR and from one of his closest contacts that became infected. These cases should be considered an alert for the potential circulation of a new variant of concern with the E484K mutation in South America

A suspected case of SARS-CoV-2 persistence with reactivation (preprint)

Reinfections with SARS-CoV-2 have been verified by the presence of phylogenetically distant viruses in each episode. Here, we report a suspected case of SARS-CoV-2 persistence with reactivation in a 35-years old patient presenting positive RT-PCR on April 7th and August 7th, each episode characterized by mild and severe symptoms, respectively. Sequencing of viral genomes identified only two SNPs indicating the presence of genetically linked viruses for the first time. Subsequently to hospital discharge, the patient presented a positive diagnosis for SARS-CoV-2 in stool, urine and semen samples.