A tale of three SARS-CoV-2 variants with independently acquired P681H mutations in New York State

Several SARS-CoV-2 variants of concern have independently acquired some of the same Spike protein mutations, notably E484K, N501Y, S477N, and K417T, associated with increased viral transmission and/or reduced sensitivity to neutralization by antibodies. Repeated evolution of the same mutations, particularly in variants that are now rapidly spreading in various regions of the world, suggests a fitness advantage. Mutations at position P681 in Spike, possibly affecting viral transmission, have also evolved multiple times, including in two variants of concern. Here, we describe three variants circulating in New York State that have independently acquired a P681H mutation and the different trajectories they have taken. While one variant rose to high prevalence since later summer 2020 it appears to be in decline. The other two variants were more recently detected in New York and harbor additional Spike mutations that might be cause for continued monitoring. The latter two P681H variants have shown moderate increases in prevalence but ultimately all might be subject to the same fate as more competitive variants come to dominate the scene