Amid the withdrawal of AstraZeneca’s Covishield and calls from doctors to review the science behind Covid vaccines, two new variants of the Omicron lineage, collectively known as FLiRT, are spreading in the US, sparking concerns of a fresh wave. Variants KP.2 and KP.11 have emerged with new mutations, making them more infectious and capable of evading immunity from vaccines and previous infections. Symptoms remain similar to previous variants, including fever, cough, fatigue, and digestive issues. With waning immunity and the relaxation of social distancing norms, it’s crucial to remain vigilant against these new Covid threats.
Dr. Sushila Kataria, Senior Director of Internal Medicine at Medanta, Gurugram, explains, “In the landscape of Covid-19, Covid-19 variants within the Omicron JN.1 lineage, called FLiRt variants, present new challenges. The variants KP.2 and KP 1.1 have new mutations that make them more contagious than previous Omicron variants. Their symptoms, akin to earlier variants, include fever, cough, and fatigue. However, their heightened transmission rate demands stringent precautions. They also show the ability to evade immunity from prior infection and vaccines. The variant spreads easily through respiratory droplets, posing risks to all, especially the unvaccinated and those with compromised immunity. With subtle genetic differences, FLiRt diverges from earlier variants, requiring tailored management techniques.”
Dr. Arunesh Kumar, Sr Consultant & Head of Respiratory Medicine at Paras Health, Gurugram, adds key insights about the FLiRT variant:
1. Immunity Evasion: This new COVID variant, a subvariant of Omicron named FLiRT, is believed to evade the immune system due to changes in genetic mutations.
2. Dominance: FLiRT comprises two significant variants, KP.2 and KP.1.1, with the former spreading rapidly and the latter expected to contribute to about 7.5% of new Covid-19 cases in the US.
3. Symptoms: FLiRT mainly affects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms such as sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, cough, fever, headache, and loss of taste and smell. Hospitalization rates for patients with these symptoms are not higher than usual, but the variant is highly infectious.
4. Transmission: This variant spreads through respiratory droplets from infected persons and by touching infected surfaces. Comprehensive measures are necessary to slow its transmission.
5. Severity: FLiRT is highly transmissible, putting everyone at risk, especially the unvaccinated and those with weakened immune systems. However, with improved testing, targeted vaccines, and adherence to preventive measures, transmission can be halted.
Dr. Kataria advises, “However, it’s a small surge, and there is no need to panic. We should stay vigilant and ensure enhanced testing, targeted vaccinations, and continued adherence to preventive measures are necessary to prevent transmission. By staying informed, vigilant, and united, we navigate this new variant with resilience, prioritizing collective health and well-being. We should adhere to COVID-friendly protocols, i.e., washing hands properly, wearing masks; people of certain age groups such as children and the elderly should pay extra attention, as should people with comorbid conditions.”