April 27, 2022 Update
Unpacking Variants
Throughout the pandemic, the United States has experienced waves of different variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. SARS-CoV-2 is constantly changing, and new variants of the virus are expected to occur.
In early 2021, the Alpha variant emerged, followed by the Delta variant later that summer. In late 2021 and throughout early 2022, the Omicron variant swept across the country and continues to be the predominant variant circulating in the United States.
In recent weeks, BA.2.12.1, an Omicron sublineage (sometimes called a “subvariant”), has emerged and is increasing in prevalence in parts of the country. Some early evidence suggests BA.2.12.1 is increasing in variant proportion faster than other Omicron sublineages. CDC is working to better understand BA.2.12.1, how it spreads, and how well existing treatments and vaccines for COVID-19 work against it.
As the virus continues to evolve, we expect to see new variants (and their many different lineages and sublineages) emerge and disappear as they compete against each other and other circulating viruses. CDC scientists closely monitor trends in variant proportions and evaluate the public health impact. While new variants may cause increases in cases, especially in localized areas, it is important to remember that we have all the tools needed to prevent COVID-19. CDC’s COVID-19 Community Levels tool can help communities and people make decisions about prevention strategies.
The COVID-19 Community Level is noted each week on the graphic below (currently, it is Low) and on www.accgov.com/coronavirus.
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