The COVID-19 pandemic has been a global health crisis that has affected millions of people worldwide. The virus has mutated over time, leading to the emergence of several variants. According to an article by Nebraska Medicine, there are several COVID-19 variants that are currently circulating around the world. The following are some of the most recent variants:
- EG.5: This variant is closely related to the XBB variants that have been circulating in the US for the past six months. It contains a mutation that can evade some of the immunity that you get after an infection or vaccination. It is currently the most prevalent variant in the US, accounting for more than 17% of cases .
- FL.1.5.1: This variant is also a descendant of the XBB variants and shares a mutation known as F456L, which appears to be helping it spread more than other virus siblings.
- BA.2.86: This is a new COVID-19 variant that has been nicknamed Pirola and is being monitored by the World Health Organization. It has been confirmed in at least four states in the US and has a large number of mutations at some key parts of the virus . According to ABC News, the new COVID-19 variant, BA.2.86, has been detected in at least five states in the US, including Michigan, New York, Ohio, Texas, and Virginia. This variant is highly mutated and carries more than 30 mutations in key portions of the virus compared with XBB.1.5 – the dominant variant through most of 2023. While this variant is concerning, data suggests that it’s not yet widespread and that antivirals and diagnostic tests should still work against it. Public health officials are closely monitoring this variant to determine if it poses a significant threat.
It’s important to note that while these variants are increasing quickly, the total case numbers are still pretty low and reasonable. The antivirals currently available should work against them, and diagnostic tests should recognize these variants quite well .
The EG.5 variant is particularly concerning because it can evade some of the immunity that you get after an infection or vaccination . This means that people who have already been infected with COVID-19 or vaccinated against it may still be susceptible to this variant.
The FL.1.5.1 variant appears to be spreading more easily than other virus siblings, which could make it more difficult to control its spread. However, it’s important to note that this variant is still susceptible to antivirals and diagnostic tests.
The BA.2.86 variant is still being studied, but early reports suggest that it may be more transmissible than other variants. It’s important to monitor this variant closely to determine if it poses a significant threat.
According to an article by MSN, updated versions of COVID-19 vaccines from Pfizer and Moderna have earned FDA approval. While initially designed to target June’s dominant variant of XBB.1.5, research shows these vaccines should protect against newer variants, like BA.2.86 and EG.5, as well. The new shots were designed to better protect against currently circulating variants . Though the BA.2.86 variant is highly mutated and contains more than 30 mutations in key portions of the virus compared with XBB.1.5, research suggests that the updated vaccines should still provide protection against all current circulating subvariants, including BA.2.86 . Novavax’s COVID vaccine has not yet been authorized by the FDA . It’s important to note that while these variants may be more transmissible or resistant to immunity, antivirals and diagnostic tests should still work against them .
According to a recent news article, officials have generally downplayed claims of dramatic changes in symptoms caused by the new COVID-19 variants EG.5 and FL.1.5.1, compared to their close Omicron variant relatives from earlier in the pandemic . The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on August 9 that there has been no evidence of increased disease severity from the new EG.5 strain. Experts say that other changes in the population, like immunity from prior infections and vaccination, also muddies attempts to compare whether new variants are to blame for shifts in reported symptoms from the virus.
In recent months, COVID-19 symptoms appear to have remained largely the same as they have for the past year, with cold and flu-like signs – cough, headache, muscle aches, runny nose and fatigue – reported most often.
Routine Covid-19 testing and mask mandates are more important than ever. With the pandemic closing in on us once again, it is important for communities to do their part when it comes to keeping our friends and families safe. My Care Labs is open 7 days a week for walk-in or scheduled appointments. Additionally, we offer mobile testing services where all Tri-City residents automatically qualify for this service.
In conclusion, COVID-19 variants are a serious concern and should be monitored closely by public health officials around the world. While these variants may be more transmissible or resistant to immunity, antivirals and diagnostic tests should still work against them. It’s important for everyone to continue following public health guidelines such as wearing masks, social distancing, and getting vaccinated to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.
