The Africa Centres for Disease Control and Prevention says at least 40 countries have experienced a second wave of the new coronavirus variants as of 27 January 2021.
According to a statement released by the Africa CDC on its website, this includes all countries in the Southern Africa region.
“This new wave of infections is thought to be associated with the emergence of variants that are more transmissible. Preliminary findings show that three new similar but distinct Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) variants, the 501Y/VUI – 202012/01, 501Y.V2, 501Y.V3, reported in the United Kingdom, South Africa and Brazil, respectively, are significantly more transmissible than previously circulating variants, with high viral shedding observed among cases,” it stated.
The Africa CDC further disclosed that; “There is currently limited data on the extent to which these new variants have spread in Africa, but preliminary data show that the 501Y.V2 variant has been reported in 22 countries globally including South Africa, Ghana, Botswana and Zambia.”
Collaborative Efforts
Africa CDC is working with partners and member states to map the regional spread of the new variants in Africa through regional genomic surveillance; support laboratory centres of excellence to address the emerging SARS-CoV-2 sequencing needs of Member States and ensure availability of geographically representative and timely data;
It added that it is also working to provide technical guidance for genomic surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 in Africa and ensure quality-assured sequencing by specialized laboratories and regional laboratory hubs.
“Strengthen the capacity of national and regional laboratories to effectively respond to the emerging sequencing needs,” the Africa CDC said.
PIAK/Africa CDC
