A new Covid-19 variant called ‘FLiRT’ is rapidly spreading in the United States. According to experts, FLiRT has the ability to evade the immune system due to a trans substitution of amino acids between two spike proteins. This variant belongs to the Omicron’s JN.1 lineage and is quickly replacing the previous variant, Eris, in the US, UK, New Zealand, and South Korea.
Hospitalisation rates have increased in these countries, mainly due to the FLiRT variant. However, it is important to note that the overall mortality rate has not increased significantly. The nickname ‘FLiRT’ is based on the technical names for the mutations in the variant, as stated by the Infectious Disease Society of America.
What did the WHO say?
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The World Health Organization (WHO) has reclassified FLiRT as a variant of interest and has advised close monitoring. Experts believe that the increased use of monoclonal antibodies may be driving this mutation. The symptoms of the FLiRT variant are similar to other Omicron sub variants, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever, and possible loss of taste and smell.
Although ongoing research is being conducted, there is still much to be understood about these variants. Dr. Eric Topol, Executive Vice President at Scripps Research, has cautioned that while the KP.2 variant is predominant in the US, it may be premature to fully assess its potential threats.
Decline in COVID-19 Cases in US Wastewater
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported minimal traces of COVID-19 viruses in US wastewater, indicating a decline compared to the peak in cases observed in January. This is a positive sign that the number of cases is decreasing. Globally, while there was a rise in case counts from early to mid-April, they remain significantly lower than previous peaks.
It is important to continue practising preventive measures such as wearing masks, practising good hand hygiene, and getting vaccinated to further reduce the spread of the virus.
Emerging Symptoms of FLiRT
Symptoms associated with FLiRT are similar to those of other Omicron subvariants. These include a sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever, and a possible loss of taste and smell, as experts have pointed out.
How Dangerous is FLiRT Compared to Other Variants?
FLiRT has resulted in increased hospitalization rates, but it hasn’t significantly raised mortality rates. Its primary impact seems to be on the upper respiratory tract.
Precautions to Take
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– Stay vigilant and follow precautionary measures.
– Practise good hand hygiene.
– Wear masks.
– Maintain physical distancing.
– Avoid large gatherings.
– Stay home when feeling unwell.
– Prioritize vaccination.
The Importance of Public Health Measures
This achievement highlights the crucial role of robust public health measures and vaccination campaigns in controlling the spread of COVID-19 variants. As we continue to fight against the virus, it’s essential to remain committed to preventive measures to protect public health.
One cannot stress the significance of public health initiatives in keeping COVID-19 novel variations under control. In order to swiftly discover and track these variants and enable public health authorities to take appropriate action to safeguard the public’s health, viral genomic surveillance is essential. There are more COVID-19 cases as a result of some variants spreading faster and easier than others.
There are a number of actions that public health authorities can take to lessen the harmful impacts of COVID-19 on individuals, communities, and populations.
