EPI-WIN webinar: Naming of SARS-CoV-2 variants

WHO has been monitoring and assessing the evolution of SARS-CoV-2 since January 2020. In late-2020, the emergence of variants that posed an increased risk to global public health prompted the characterization of specific Variants of Concern (VOCs) and Variants of Interest (VOIs). The established nomenclature systems for naming and tracking SARS-CoV-2 variants are currently and will remain in use by scientists and in scientific research. However, to assist with public discussions and communication with non-scientific audiences about variants, WHO convened a group of scientists and additional experts to consider developing easy-to-pronounce and non-stigmatising labels for VOI and VOC. Join WHO colleagues on this webinar to learn about the new labelling system of SARS-CoV-2 Variants of Concern and Variants of Interest.

Agenda:
Opening - Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO
Nomenclature system - Frank Konings and Lorenzo Subissi, WHO
Global epidemiological overview - Brett Archer,WHO

Moderated by Sarah Hess, World Health Organization