Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 6, 2025

Author Spotlight: A Pseudotype Virus System for Assessing Omicron Subvariants and Neutralizing Antibodies in SARS-CoV-2 Research
Published on: September 8, 2023
Heterogeneity of the Omicron variant in Senegal
Cyrille Kouligueul Diédhiou1, Abdou Padane1,2, Khadim Gueye1
1Institut de Recherche en Santé, de Surveillance Épidémiologique et de Formations (IRESSEF), Dakar, Sénégal.
Abstract:
•Omicron variant continues to progress in Senegal with the appearance of new contaminations.•IRESSEF detected the first positive case of the Omicron variant on Friday, December 3, 2021.•Since this date, the number of Omicron variant infections has increased over the weeks.•Molecular surveillance of the Omicron variant allowed us to identify a strong variation of this variant in our country.
Insights
The Omicron variant rapidly spread in Senegal starting in December 2021. Molecular surveillance revealed significant genetic variation of this SARS-CoV-2 variant within the country.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Public Health
Background:
- The Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2 emerged globally, posing a significant public health challenge.
- Understanding the variant's progression and genetic characteristics in specific regions is crucial for effective response.
Purpose of the Study:
- To track the emergence and spread of the Omicron variant in Senegal.
- To investigate the genetic diversity of the Omicron variant circulating within Senegal.
Main Methods:
- Detection of the first Omicron case in Senegal on December 3, 2021.
- Ongoing molecular surveillance to monitor variant prevalence.
- Analysis of genetic variations within detected Omicron samples.
Main Results:
- The Omicron variant showed continuous progression in Senegal following its initial detection.
- A notable increase in Omicron variant infections was observed weekly after December 3, 2021.
- Molecular surveillance identified significant genetic variation within the Omicron variant in Senegal.
Conclusions:
- The Omicron variant established a significant presence in Senegal shortly after its introduction.
- Genetic variability of the Omicron variant in Senegal warrants further investigation and monitoring.
- Public health strategies must adapt to the evolving characteristics of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants.
Related Concept Videos
Single Nucleotide Polymorphisms-SNPs
Bias in Epidemiological Studies
Genetic Variation
Genes exist in different versions called alleles,...
Principles of Disease Surveillance
Viral Mutations
Sputum Studies II: Culture and Sensitivity
Sputum culture and sensitivity is a medical procedure used to diagnose bacterial infections in the respiratory tract and select the most appropriate antibiotics for treatment. This process involves analyzing sputum samples of thick and opaque secretions produced in the lungs and airways. These samples are collected from patients and then sent to the laboratory for analysis.
The test can identify various pathogens responsible for respiratory infections, including Streptococcus,...

