Clinical challenges of SARS‑CoV‑2 variants (Review)

Abstract

Since the first cases of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) infection, there have been challenges recognizing the clinical features of SARS-CoV-2 and identifying therapeutic options. This has been compounded by viral mutations that affect clinical response and primary epidemiological indicators. Multiple variants of SARS-CoV-2 have been identified and classified on the basis of nomenclature implemented by scientific organizations and the World Health Organisation (WHO). A total of five variants of concern (VOCs) have been identified to date. The present study aimed to analyse clinical and epidemiological features of each variant. Based on these characteristics, predictions were made about potential future evolution. Considering the time and location of SARS-CoV-2 VOC emergence, it was hypothesised that mutations were not due to pressure caused by the vaccines introduced in December 2020 but were dependent on natural characteristics of the virus. In the process of adapting to the human body, SARS-CoV-2 is expected to undergo evolution to become more contagious but less deadly. SARS-CoV-2 was hypothesized to continue spread through isolated epidemic outbreaks due to the unimmunized population, mostly unvaccinated children and adults, and for coronaviruses to continue to present a public health problem.