Using genes in the detection and prevention of Covid-19

Genetic mutations in viruses like SARS-CoV-2, seen here in a colour-enhanced transmission electron micrograph, can produce new variants that may be more infectious. — US NIAID/AFP

The appearance of new SARS-CoV-2 virus strains is worrying as the genetic mutations that result in such new strains might enable them to spread more easily or cause more severe disease.

The SARS-CoV-2 virus contains genetic material in the form of the RNA (ribonucleic acid) molecule.