National Center of Infectious and Parasitic Diseases, Sofia, Bulgaria
Communication on the spread of SARS-CoV-2 variants in the country March 21, 2024
The NCIPD has successfully analyzed 84 clinical samples with SARS-CoV-2 by next-generation whole genome sequencing. The samples were collected from patients with COVID-19 from 22 regions of the country in the period 21.12.2023-02.02.2024 and were sent by 29 laboratories.
Omicron and its subvariants were detected in all samples. Two variants of SARS-CoV-2, which have been identified by the WHO as variants of interest (VOIs), have been detected: 6(7.1%) BA.2 and 65(77.4%)BA.2.86. In addition, the subvariants were proven: EG.x 3(3.6%), XBB.x 2(2.4%) and 8(9.5%) other subvariants
Pangolin COVID-19 Lineage Assigner v4.3. program was used to define SARS-CoV-2 variants. An epidemiological analysis is being carried out.
For information on the classification of SARS-CoV-2 variants and sub-variants, please visit: https://cov-lineages.org/index.html
For an up-to-date classification of the variants of concern (VOC), please visit:
https://www.ecdc.europa.eu/en/covid-19/variants-concern
https://www.who.int/en/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants/
The NCIPD continues to monitor the spread of SARS-CoV-2 in the country, with a focus on VOC, altered virulence, and immunogenicity which are of increased public health importance.