New Covid variant FLiRT spreads in US; all you need to know
New COVID-19 variants (KP.2 and KP 1.1) emerging in the United States as summer approaches, potentially leading to increased infections. The mention of “FLiRT” seems like it could be an acronym for a variant or a related concept. The article likely aims to provide information on the variants, their symptoms, and ways to stay safe. It suggests readers continue reading to learn more about FLiRT and how to protect themselves.
FLiRT, which stems from Omicron’s JN.1 lineage, is swiftly supplanting the prior Eris variant in the US, the UK, New Zealand, and South Korea, prompting worries about a forthcoming surge in infections during the summer, as indicated by experts. The newly mutated variants, KP.2 and KP 1.1, are deemed to be more contagious than earlier Omicron variations. Nonetheless, specialists maintain that the symptoms persist unchanged. KP.2 has now become the predominant variant, displacing JN.1, in the United States.
What Exactly Is the Novel COVID-19 Variant FLiRT?
FLiRT derives its name from the technical designations for specific mutations within the virus, featuring combinations such as F and L, as well as R and T. Among these variants, scientists highlight KP.2 as the one raising the most significant concerns.
As per the latest data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, KP.2 has been detected in approximately 25 percent of newly sequenced cases in the past fortnight throughout the US. However, it has yet to achieve widespread prevalence in the nation.
How DANGEROUS is FLiRT
Regarding the potential threat posed by the Covid FLiRT Variant, experts are currently striving to ascertain its level of contagion and lethality compared to earlier strains, which could potentially lead to a surge in infections and hospitalizations. WebMD highlights some worrisome attributes of FLiRT, including alterations in the spike protein, which is crucial for facilitating SARS-CoV-2’s ability to infect, propagate within the body, and cause illness.
Officials caution that a significant portion of the American population remains susceptible, with only 22 percent of adults having received the latest COVID vaccine. Moreover, due to the passage of time since many individuals were last infected, they may be more susceptible to reinfection. However, data also suggests that even those who have received booster shots may not possess adequate protection against a potential resurgence.
When it comes to identifying the signs and symptoms of the Covid Flirt Variant, scientists indicate that they do not significantly differ from those associated with previously known COVID-19 variants. These symptoms include:
Similarly, symptoms associated with the Covid FLiRT Variant include:
– Flu-like symptoms
– Body aches
– Loss of smell and taste
– Sore throat
– Congestion
– Runny nose
– Vomiting
– Diarrhoea
– Fever
– Cough
– Breathlessness
– Fatigue
– Digestive issues
Doctors emphasize that a specific genomic test would be required to determine whether an individual has contracted this variant.
Regarding concerns in India, experts suggest that the latest variant has not resulted in a significant surge in hospitalizations thus far and has remained relatively contained. Furthermore, the overall mortality rate has not seen a notable increase.
Despite the virus’s continual evolution and seasonal fluctuations, there are several preventive measures individuals can take:
– Get vaccinated
– Stay home if feeling unwell
– Wear masks in public settings
– Maintain physical distance or avoid crowded places altogether.
Source and refernece: https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/health-fitness/health-news/flirt-the-new-covid-variants-are-circulating-fast-all-about-symptoms-severity/articleshow/109860956.cms