Characterization of the SARS-CoV-2 virus and antibodies

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona virus-2019 (SARS-CoV-2), which causes COVID-19 disease, has been confirmed to cause fatalities, although cases of mild asymptomatic reactions and different mutants/variants have been shown. There are many efforts across the globe aimed at developing vaccines, drugs and immunotherapies against the virus to supplement physical distancing as control strategies. However, it is important to note that drugs and vaccines may specifically target only certain isolates, variants and strains of circulating viruses. Hence, understanding the variant pool, the infection reservoirs (other animals that can be infected) and the nature of their antibodies will be an important aspect of the control strategy. Therefore our aim is to identify the circulating strains of SARS CoV-2 virus through characterization; to understand the magnitude of infections through sero- and molecular surveillance; and to understand the characteristics of the anti-SARS-CoV-19 antibodies. These three attributes will be an important aspect of developing an integrated control strategy for COVID-19