In March 2021, the presence of the SARS-CoV-2 Beta (B.1.351) variant was suspected and detected in our hospital by real-time reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR), later confirmed by the National Institute of Health Dr. Ricardo Jorge (INSA) by genomic sequencing. With the increase in the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Portugal and the fact that not all laboratories have specific kits to detect these mutations, we believe that it is relevant to share the findings that led us to suspect the presence of a variant in these patients. This variant is considerably more contagious and can quickly worsen the underlying disease of inpatients that share the same ward if they become infected.

Leia aqui a Carta ao Editor (apenas em inglês).