New strains of Covid-19, known as FLiRT variants, are spreading globally, raising concerns about a potential summer spike in cases. These variants are descendants of the previously dominant JN.1 variant, which is an offshoot of omicron. There is currently little evidence to suggest that the new strains are more severe, but they have independently acquired the same set of mutations. The KP.2 variant is now dominant in the U.S., accounting for 28.2% of cases as of May 11. Cases of another FLiRT variant, KP.1.1, have also been on the rise.
In Europe, cases of the new variants have been detected in 14 countries. While the World Health Organization reports that cases remain limited in all reporting countries, individual countries are seeing slight increases in detections from very low levels. The U.K. Health Security Agency continues to monitor data on the new variants, assessing their severity and the ongoing effectiveness of vaccines. Despite the rise in cases, there is currently no change to the wider public health advice.
Jennifer Horney, a professor of epidemiology at the University of Delaware, believes that the new strains are unlikely to cause a major wave of infections like those seen in the past. However, she anticipates an uptick in cases during the summer months. Horney notes that many of these cases will likely be mild due to existing immunity, rather than changes in the circulating strain. Health professionals will closely monitor the effectiveness of current vaccines against the new variants.
The U.S. Food and Drug Administration’s vaccines advisory committee is scheduled to meet next month to discuss recommendations for the variant mix for this winter’s Covid-19 vaccine. The meeting was previously postponed to collect more data on the new strains. With concerns about a potential summer spike in cases, health experts will be closely monitoring the situation and evaluating the need for any updated vaccination strategies.
As the FLiRT variants continue to spread, it remains crucial for countries to closely monitor and track the spread of the virus. Public health agencies and researchers are working to understand the implications of these new strains and assess the potential impact on vaccine effectiveness. With uncertainties surrounding the new variants, ongoing research and surveillance efforts are essential to guide public health responses and strategies to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.
In light of the rise of new Covid-19 variants, governments and health professionals are urged to remain vigilant and responsive to changing trends in the virus. By continuing to monitor data and adapt public health measures as needed, countries can better prepare for and respond to potential surges in cases. Collaborative efforts at the international level will also be key in mitigating the impact of the new strains and controlling the spread of the virus globally.
