FLiRT, the latest dominant COVID-19 variant in several countries, including the US and the UK, has been causing concern due to its ability to infect even vaccinated individuals. Vaccines are effective in preventing severe disease, but breakthrough infections are still possible. Recently, my household experienced a bout of COVID-19 despite being vaccinated, highlighting the ongoing threat of the virus.
FLiRT is not a single mutation but rather a group of variants, including KP.2, JN.1.7, and others, all descendants of the JN.1 variant. These variants share specific mutations in the spike protein, impacting their ability to bind to cell receptors and evade neutralizing antibodies. Preliminary findings suggest that FLiRT variants may trade some infectivity for increased resistance to immune pressure, leading to symptoms like coughing and hay fever.
In addition to FLiRT, another variant, FLuQE, has emerged in New South Wales, displaying enhanced binding capabilities to human cells. The virus continues to evolve, with new variants like FLuQE surpassing previous ones like FLiRT in terms of transmissibility and severity of symptoms.
While the full implications of these new variants are not yet fully understood, experts warn of potential outbreak waves in the future. Vulnerable populations, such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals, remain at highest risk of severe illness from these variants. Everyone can contribute to protecting these populations by following public health guidelines and being vigilant for symptoms.
Symptoms of these variants remain similar to previous strains, and vaccines continue to offer protection against severe disease. Antiviral medications like Paxlovid can also be beneficial in treating COVID-19. Keeping COVID tests at home and using them at the onset of symptoms can help in early detection and isolation, especially for high-risk individuals.
In conclusion, staying informed about the latest variants, practicing preventive measures, and seeking medical advice when necessary are crucial steps in managing the ongoing threat of COVID-19. By remaining vigilant and taking appropriate precautions, we can help mitigate the impact of these new variants and protect vulnerable members of our communities.