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Evolution of SARS-CoV-2 Key Mutations in Vienna Detected by Large Scale Screening Program
Jakob Thannesberger1, Anna Edermayr2, Alireza Karimi2
1Division of Infectious Diseases, Department of Medicine 1, Medical University of Vienna, 1090 Vienna, Austria.
Viruses
|October 26, 2021
Summary
Vienna
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- The rapid spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants necessitates effective surveillance.
- Vienna experienced a significant increase in infections during the last wave.
- Innovative screening methods are crucial for monitoring viral spread.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 and its variants using PCR analysis of mouthwash samples.
- To map the temporal occurrence of SARS-CoV-2 variants in an unbiased manner.
- To compare findings with existing surveillance programs.
Main Methods:
- A state-wide screening program in Vienna utilized self-collected mouthwash samples.
- Over 400,000 samples were collected and analyzed via PCR from January to March 2021.
- Standardized preanalytical and analytical steps were performed at a single testing center.
Main Results:
- The overall SARS-CoV-2 positivity rate was 0.43%.
- The N501Y variant proportion increased to 68% of weekly samples.
- Mutation K417N was detected in only three samples.
Conclusions:
- Mouthwash PCR screening provides an unbiased method for tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants.
- Actual virus prevalence may be overestimated by traditional surveillance methods like contact tracing.
- This study highlights the utility of large-scale, standardized screening programs.
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