Alliance for Pandemic Preparedness

February 11, 2021

Emergence of a Novel SARS-CoV-2 Variant in Southern California

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A novel variant of SARS-CoV-2 called “CAL.20C” was identified in Southern California and emerged contemporaneously with a local surge in cases. The authors define the variant on the basis of three mutations in the S-protein (S13I; W152C; and L452R) which differentiate the subclade from the 20C clade currently predominant in North America. The functional effect of these mutations on infectivity and clinical outcomes of people infected with the CAL.20C strain has yet to be determined.

Zhang et al. (Feb 11, 2021). Emergence of a Novel SARS-CoV-2 Variant in Southern California. JAMA. https://doi.org/10.1001/jama.2021.1612