Risk evaluation and mitigation strategies for newly detected SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron BF.7 subvariant: A brief report

Abstract

Abstract Mutations of the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) are always going on. The pathogenic characteristics of a virus are influenced by mutations in the viral genome. Therefore, the recently identified Omicron BF.7 subvariant might harm humans. Here we aimed to evaluate the potential risks of this newly detected variant and identify possible mitigation strategies. The frequent mutation associated with SARS‐CoV‐2 makes it more concerning compared to other viruses. The Omicron variant of SARS‐CoV‐2 has unique changes in the structural amino acid. Thus, Omicron subvariants are different from other coronavirus variants in terms of viral spread, disease severity, vaccine neutralization capacity, and immunity evade. Moreover, Omicron subvariant BF.7 is an offspring of BA.4 and BA.5. Similar S glycoprotein sequences are present among BF.7, BA.4, and BA.5. There is a change in the R346T gene in the receptor binding site of Omicron BF.7 than other Omicron subvariants. This BF.7 subvariant has created a limitation in current monoclonal antibody therapy. Omicron has mutated since it emerged, and the subvariants are improving in terms of transmission as well as antibody evasion. Therefore, the healthcare authorities should pay attention to the BF.7 subvariant of Omicron. The recent upsurge may create havoc all of a sudden. Scientists and researchers across the world should monitor the nature and mutations of SARS‐CoV‐2 variants. Also, they should find ways to fight the current circulatory variants and any future mutations.

Keywords

• BA.5.2.1.7
• BF.7
• coronavirus
• COVID‐19
• Omicron
• SARS‐CoV‐2