Cluster characterization of SARS-CoV-2 in military personnel deployed to Egypt and subsequent introduction of B.1.1.7 and C.36 lineages to Colombia

J Travel Med. 2021 Oct 11;28(7):taab131. doi: 10.1093/jtm/taab131.

Abstract

In April 2021, 126 active-duty militaries returned to Colombia after a mission in Egypt. Of 29 cases, 28 were B.1.1.7, and one C.36 (first description of this lineage in Colombia). We highlight the militaries as at-risk population and call for implementation of genomic surveillance to improve public health policies in military settings.

Keywords: Alpha variant; COVID-19; SARS-CoV-2; genome sequencing; variant of concern.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • COVID-19* / virology
  • Colombia / epidemiology
  • Egypt / epidemiology
  • Humans
  • Military Personnel*
  • SARS-CoV-2 / classification*