Comparison of the replication and neutralization of different SARS‐CoV‐2 Omicron subvariants in vitro

New Omicron subvariants are emerging rapidly from BA.1 to BA.4 and BA.5. Their pathogenicity has changed from that of wild‐type (WH‐09) and Omicron variants have over time become globally dominant. The spike proteins of BA.4 and BA.5 that serve as the target for vaccine‐induced neutralizing antibodies have also changed compared to the previous subvariants, which is likely to cause immune escape and the reduction of the protective effect of the vaccine. Our study addresses the above issues and provides a basis for formulating relevant prevention and control strategies.

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