**7. Conclusions**

Even though the genetic diversity of SARS-CoV-2 is currently low, the combination of genetic, clinical, and epidemiological data is highly successful in generating outbreak management action plans. Genetic information, in particular, aids in tracking the viral introduction to countries, classifying the lineage of the ancestral origin of the virus, and recognizing the pattern of population spread during the outbreak. In addition, the information obtained from the genome sequencing tools of the SARS-CoV-2 virus identifies rates of substitution (mutation) that occurred in the viral genome.

Integration of genetic, clinical, and epidemiological information seems to be a vital step to understand the SARS-CoV-2 (genotype and phenotype) and contribute to the global landscape. The combination of this knowledge not only aids in decision-making process for the implementation of precautions and control measures, but also to the comprehension of virulence and severity, transmissibility of virus response to treatment, and effectiveness of vaccines for disease prevention.

Finally, it is doubtful that the current pandemic will be the last one, and it is therefore important to strengthen the responsiveness of our public health systems and to introduce and enhance ongoing scientific research programs combining preclinical, clinical and epidemiological information.
