SARS-CoV-2 in low-income countries: the need for sustained genomic surveillance

Gonzalez‐Reiche, Ana S.

doi:10.1016/s2214-109x(23)00197-3

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

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“…In turn, the rate of individuals who completed a primary vaccination course in Africa, which has the highest population of people living with HIV (predominantly in the Sub-Saharan area), was approximately 5% at the time of Omicron’s identification (compared to nearly 55% in the USA, 65% in the European Union, and 50% in Oceania). Although infections with Omicron are milder compared to the SARS-CoV-2 lineages preceding it, a lesson must be learned, particularly if one considers that viral genomic surveillance in low-income countries is limited [ 229 ]. When various health authorities issue novel recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccination [ 153 ], there is no reason to shape them differently for low- and high-income regions, since COVID-19 remains a global issue and should be treated equally regardless of one’s origin or ethnicity [ 224 ].…”

Section: Leaving No Country Behind: Low-income Regions Require Better...mentioning

confidence: 99%

Key Considerations during the Transition from the Acute Phase of the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Narrative Review

Rzymski,

Pokorska-Śpiewak,

Jackowska

et al. 2023

Vaccines

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The COVID-19 pandemic has been met with an unprecedented response from the scientific community, leading to the development, investigation, and authorization of vaccines and antivirals, ultimately reducing the impact of SARS-CoV-2 on global public health. However, SARS-CoV-2 is far from being eradicated, continues to evolve, and causes substantial health and economic burdens. In this narrative review, we posit essential points on SARS-CoV-2 and its responsible management during the transition from the acute phase of the COVID-19 pandemic. As discussed, despite Omicron (sub)variant(s) causing clinically milder infections, SARS-CoV-2 is far from being a negligible pathogen. It requires continued genomic surveillance, particularly if one considers that its future (sub)lineages do not necessarily have to be milder. Antivirals and vaccines remain the essential elements in COVID-19 management. However, the former could benefit from further development and improvements in dosing, while the seasonal administration of the latter requires simplification to increase interest and tackle vaccine hesitancy. It is also essential to ensure the accessibility of COVID-19 pharmaceuticals and vaccines in low-income countries and improve the understanding of their use in the context of the long-term goals of SARS-CoV-2 management. Regardless of location, the primary role of COVID-19 awareness and education must be played by healthcare workers, who directly communicate with patients and serve as role models for healthy behaviors.

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Section: Leaving No Country Behind: Low-income Regions Require Better...mentioning

confidence: 99%