Unique Chicago COVID-19 virus linked to early cases in China

A unique COVID-19 virus that spread through Chicago appears to link directly to an early outbreak in China and may not spread as easily and as rapidly as the virus prevalent in New York and elsewhere in the U.S., according to new research.

In a preliminary study of genetic makeup of the coronavirus in Chicago, Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine researchers discovered a unique type that is more likely to be found locally than other parts of the country. The goal of better understanding the genetic difference in virus outbreaks is to use that information to develop effective vaccines.

After studying the genetic makeup of dozens of virus samples from nearly 90 people, the Northwestern researchers determined that there were three main types of the virus found locally.

Almost 60% of the samples studied were closely related to the virus that is prevalent in New York.

Thirty percent of the samples belonged to a virus type largely unique to Chicago, which is closely related to the virus from China, the study found. It also notes that the second confirmed case in the U.S. was in Chicago after a woman traveled in Wuhan, China.

“This is one of the first studies we’re aware of that is able to show these different groups,” lead investigator Dr. Egon Ozer said. “Does it mean it will transmit more frequently or more easily to people? We don’t know that, but this kind of study starts us looking in that direction.”