What is the Difference Between L and S Coronavirus?

L and S coronaviruses are two strains of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. These strains emerged around the time the virus jumped from animals to humans, with the L-type being more prevalent, suggesting that it is more aggressive in transmission. Both strains are involved in the current global outbreak.

The L and S strains have slight differences in their genome, with common mutations at two locations. The L-type was derived from the older S-type. Researchers identified these two types of the virus based on differences in the genome at the two regions: 72 were considered the "L-type," and 29 were classified as the "S-type".

It is unclear how these underlying genetic changes relate to disease severity. The World Health Organization insists that there is no evidence that the virus has significantly changed. As the virus continues to evolve, it is essential to monitor these changes and their potential effects on the severity and transmission of the disease.

Comparative Table: L vs S Coronavirus

L and S coronaviruses are two strains of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. The L lineage is more prevalent, accounting for about 70% of the SARS-CoV-2 viruses, while the S lineage makes up about 30%. Here is a table summarizing the differences between the L and S coronaviruses:

The L and S lineages have distinct evolutionary paths, with the S lineage being more closely related to coronaviruses found in animals. Despite the differences in prevalence and evolutionary relationships, both lineages cause COVID-19, and their classification helps scientists to study and understand the virus's behavior and spread.