Cracking the code: Decoding the creators behind COVID nicknames

The Science Behind COVID-19 Variants: Naming and Communication Issues

Introduction

The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has not only brought about global health crises but has also required effective communication about the various variants of the virus. The World Health Organization (WHO) initially devised a letter system to name the variants, aiming to avoid stigma and unnecessary travel bans associated with place names. However, with the emergence of new subvariants, a group of scientists led by Professor Ryan Gregory has taken it upon themselves to propose unofficial nicknames to make communication about these variants easier. In an interview with VaccinesWork, Professor Gregory discusses the limitations of the official naming system, the need for nicknames, and the process behind their selection.

The Limitations of the Official Naming System

The official naming system devised by the WHO, which uses Greek letters, has its advantages. It provides information about the variant’s ancestry and allows for a systematic understanding of the evolution of the virus. However, Professor Gregory points out that this system becomes significantly more challenging when faced with a large number of evolving variants. The WHO has named all the variants within 180 days, including the Omicron variant, which now encompasses numerous divergent lineages. This homogenous naming approach hampers effective communication about specific variants.

The Need for Nicknames

To address the limitations of the official naming system, Professor Gregory draws an analogy from zoology and botany, where common names are used alongside formal Latin species names. The Greek letter system used by the WHO corresponds to high-level taxonomic categories, similar to the formal Latin species names. However, just as common names are used to easily communicate about a subset of animals or plants that are important to us, nicknames for COVID-19 variants can serve the same purpose. They allow for easier communication between scientists and the general public, facilitating a better understanding of the variants that are currently circulating.

The Origins and Selection of Nicknames

Professor Gregory explains that the idea of proposing nicknames for COVID-19 variants started informally in August 2022 when it became increasingly challenging to differentiate between the numerous circulating variants. The team of scientists and citizen scientists, who analyze genetic sequences from testing laboratories worldwide, began using Greek mythological creatures as informal nicknames. This transition was prompted by the popularity and familiarity of these creatures due to their presence in popular culture. The nickname “Kraken” gained significant traction and became widely recognized. Subsequently, in response to concerns that some names might evoke unnecessary fear, the team switched to using astronomical names such as stars, planets, moons, and constellations.

The selection of which variants deserve a nickname involves discussions within the group. The primary criterion is whether there is a need for easier, more accessible communication about a particular variant outside of technical discussions. The aim is not to cause panic or predict a huge wave of infections but to help people distinguish and discuss the variants with greater ease.

Benefits and Concerns of Nicknaming

Some individuals argue that naming every variant can be like crying wolf, potentially causing confusion or diminishing the significance of recognized threats. However, there is a strong overlap between the variants that have been nicknamed and those designated by the WHO as variants under monitoring (VUM) or variants of interest (VOI). In fact, WHO has sometimes officially named VUMs before the team of scientists felt comfortable giving them a nickname. The use of nicknames is not meant to replace the official naming system but to provide an additional means of communication that is simpler and more accessible. Individuals have the choice to use either the nickname or the technical name, and most often, both are used in communication, balancing simplicity with accuracy.

Editorial: The Value of Nicknames in COVID-19 Variant Communication

Clear and Effective Communication in a Complex Landscape

The COVID-19 pandemic presents a challenging landscape, with the rapid emergence of variants that require ongoing monitoring and discussion. Effective communication about these variants is crucial not only for scientific research but also for public understanding and decision-making. The official naming system, while scientifically sound, can be complex and unwieldy for non-experts. This complexity necessitates the use of common names or nicknames, as they provide a simpler and more accessible means of communication.

Addressing Stigma and Fostering Global Collaboration

By moving away from place names and adopting nicknames for variants, the scientists led by Professor Gregory aim to avoid stigmatization and unnecessary travel bans. Using neutral, relatable terms instead of place names helps prevent the association of a particular location with a variant, reducing the potential for discrimination against communities or regions. This inclusive approach is crucial in fostering global collaboration and solidarity in the fight against the pandemic.

The Role of Collaboration and Citizen Scientists

The naming of COVID-19 variants is a collaborative effort involving both scientists and citizen scientists. This collaboration highlights the democratization of knowledge and expertise in the digital age. Citizen scientists, with their skills and enthusiasm, contribute to the analysis and understanding of genetic data, allowing for a more comprehensive picture of the evolving variants. Their involvement in proposing nicknames contributes to a broader conversation and facilitates better communication between experts and the public. This collective effort demonstrates the importance of diverse perspectives in scientific endeavors.

Advice: Balancing Simplicity, Accuracy, and Communication

Flexibility in Naming Approaches

The discussion around COVID-19 variant naming should focus on striking a balance between simplicity, accuracy, and effective communication. The official naming system provides essential scientific information, but it can be overwhelming for non-experts. Nicknames serve as a complementary tool, simplifying terminology and facilitating broader understanding. Adopting a flexible approach that allows for both scientific precision and accessibility is crucial in catering to different audiences and promoting clear communication.

Consistency and Collaboration

To ensure effective communication and avoid confusion, consistency in the adoption and usage of nicknames is vital. The collaboration between scientists, citizen scientists, and international health organizations such as the WHO plays a crucial role. Open dialogue and cooperation allow for the alignment of official designations with proposed nicknames, empowering public health agencies, researchers, and the media to effectively communicate about variants without causing unnecessary fear or misinformation.

Education and Contextualization

Alongside the usage of nicknames, education and contextualization remain essential in promoting accurate understanding. Public health agencies, media outlets, and communication platforms should provide explanations and information about both the technical names and nicknames of variants. This approach empowers individuals to make informed decisions, promotes scientific literacy, and reduces the potential for misinformation or misinterpretation.

The Long-Term Vision: A Holistic Naming System

As the understanding of virus evolution and variants continues to evolve, there is potential for a long-term naming system that integrates both the scientific and nickname approaches, providing a holistic understanding of COVID-19 variants. Such a system would incorporate scientific precision while maintaining accessibility and clear communication. This vision requires ongoing collaboration, open dialogue, and a commitment to adapt naming conventions to meet the needs of an ever-changing global landscape.

In conclusion, the ongoing discussion around the science and naming of COVID-19 variants highlights the importance of effective communication, inclusivity, and flexibility in addressing global health challenges. Nicknames play a valuable role in simplifying terminology, fostering understanding, and reducing stigma. Combining scientific precision with accessible communication is essential in navigating the complex landscape of the pandemic and empowering individuals and communities to make informed decisions.