Variants of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 raise concerns regarding the control of coronavirus disease epidemics. We analyzed 40,000 specific reverse transcription PCR tests performed on positive samples during January 26-February 16, 2021, in France. We found high transmission advantage of variants and more advanced spread than anticipated.
Keywords: COVID-19; France; GLM; RT-PCR; SARS-CoV-2; coronavirus disease; epidemiology; respiratory infections; screening; severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2; statistical modelling; transmission; variants; virus; viruses; zoonoses.