Genetic structure of SARS-CoV-2 reflects clonal superspreading and multiple independent introduction events, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany, February and March 2020.

Genetic structure of SARS-CoV-2 reflects clonal superspreading and multiple independent introduction events, North-Rhine Westphalia, Germany, February and March 2020.
Euro Surveill. 2020 Jun;25(22):
Authors: Walker A, Houwaart T, Wienemann T, Vasconcelos MK, Strelow D, Senff T, Hülse L, Adams O, Andree M, Hauka S, Feldt T, Jensen BE, Keitel V, Kindgen-Milles D, Timm J, Pfeffer K, Dilthey AT
Abstract
We whole-genome sequenced 55 SARS-CoV-2 isolates from Germany to investigate SARS-CoV-2 outbreaks in 2020 in the Heinsberg district and Düsseldorf. While the genetic structure of the Heinsberg outbreak indicates a clonal origin, reflecting superspreading dynamics from mid-February during the carnival season, distinct viral strains were circulating in Düsseldorf in March, reflecting the city's international links. Limited detection of Heinsberg strains in the Düsseldorf area despite geographical proximity may reflect efficient containment and contact-tracing efforts.
PMID: 32524946 [PubMed - in process]

Source: Euro Surveill - May 31, 2020 Category: Infectious Diseases Authors: Walker A, Houwaart T, Wienemann T, Vasconcelos MK, Strelow D, Senff T, Hülse L, Adams O, Andree M, Hauka S, Feldt T, Jensen BE, Keitel V, Kindgen-Milles D, Timm J, Pfeffer K, Dilthey AT Tags: Euro Surveill Source Type: research