Screening of the H69 and V70 deletions in the SARS-CoV-2 spike protein with a RT-PCR diagnosis assay reveals low prevalence in Lyon, France

The H69 and V70 deletions in SARS-CoV-2 spike protein have been detected in mink and human infections. We found that these deletions resulted in a false negative result for the spike target of a commercial RT-PCR assay. From August 3rd to November 1st, 39/6964 (0.56%) of positive tests performed in Lyon, France, displayed a S negative profile suggesting a limited circulation of the deleted variant. This RT-PCR assay could be useful to address the risk of the mink variant spreading.