The United States may be seeing the end of the respiratory virus season, but concerns are rising about a new group of COVID-19 variants known as the FLiRT variants, including KP.2, which is now the dominant variant in the country. These variants are sparking worries about a potential summer wave of infections. During a two-week period ending April 27, KP.2 accounted for nearly 25% of cases in the U.S., an increase from about 10% in the previous two-week period. Other FLiRT variants, such as KP.1.1, are also circulating, though to a lesser extent. The emergence of these new variants raises questions about the possibility of another surge, the symptoms they cause, and the effectiveness of vaccines.
The FLiRT variants, including KP.2 and KP.1.1, are offshoots of the omicron family, with specific mutations that give them an advantage over previous variants. Experts note that the rapid emergence of new, highly contagious COVID-19 variants is part of the typical mutation process seen with the virus. Although it is still early in the study of the FLiRT variants, initial data suggest that KP.2 is more transmissible than previous strains, with the potential to evade some pre-existing immunity in the population. Low vaccination rates and waning immunity create a vulnerable population that may allow these variants to spread.
As for the likelihood of a summer surge, experts note that COVID-19 is still actively circulating and unlikely to disappear any time soon. While test positivity and viral activity levels are currently low, history has shown that the virus can cause summer waves, albeit smaller than winter surges. Factors such as declining cases and hospitalizations, along with decreased indoor activity in the summer, may help mitigate the potential impact of the FLiRT variants. However, it is too early to predict the exact course of these new variants.
Symptoms of the FLiRT variants are expected to be similar to those caused by previous strains of COVID-19, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, congestion, and loss of taste or smell. These variants are not believed to be more virulent than previous strains, and initial laboratory studies suggest that vaccines should still offer some level of protection against them. While it is crucial to stay vigilant and monitor the situation closely, current prevention strategies remain essential. These include staying up to date with vaccines, testing for COVID-19 when symptomatic, practicing good hygiene, improving ventilation, and wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces.
Overall, while the emergence of the FLiRT variants poses potential challenges in the ongoing battle against COVID-19, there are reasons for cautious optimism. The effectiveness of vaccines against these variants, combined with public health measures and individual precautions, may help mitigate the impact of a potential summer wave. Continued monitoring and research will be crucial in understanding the behavior of these new variants and adapting strategies to combat them effectively.
