Two new Covid variants, KP.2 and KP 1.1 are spreading in the United States. The emergence of the FLiRT group comprising variants of the Omicron JN.1 lineage.
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FLiRT derived from Omicron’s JN.1 lineage has variants such as KP.2 and KP 1.1. These variants exhibit increased transmissibility compared to previous Omicron subvariants.
KP.2 in particular has become the dominant strain accounting for approximately 25% of new Covid cases as of April 2024. Hospitalization rates attributed to FLiRT variants remain relatively low.
Symptoms associated with FLiRT infections resemble those of other Omicron subvariants including sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, headache, muscle aches, fever, and potential loss of taste or smell.
Given the similarity of symptoms to previous variants, specific genomic testing is necessary to confirm the new variant infection.
Universal precautions such as mask usage, social distancing, and influenza vaccination are recommended to tackle the risk of infection.
Updating vaccine formulations with WHO guidelines is crucial to address emerging variants like KP 1.1 and others.
FLiRT variants are not confined to the United States but have been observed in countries like the UK, New Zealand, and South Korea. Although these variants has challenges they have not led to an increase in mortality rates.
The nickname “FLiRT” stems from the technical names of the mutations associated with these variants. Recognized as a variant of interest by the World Health Organization (WHO).
Medical professionals stress the need for continued vigilance and measures to combat the nature of the virus.
While new variants may exhibit increased transmissibility and the potential to evade immunity, strategies encompassing vaccination, hygiene practices, and public health compliance offer an approach to containment.
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FLiRT refers to a group of new SARS-CoV-2 variants that have emerged from the Omicron JN.1 lineage. These variants, including KP.2 and KP 1.1 are characterized by their increased transmissibility compared to previous Omicron subvariants.
KP.2 in particular has become the dominant strain in the U.S., accounting for around 25% of new COVID-19 cases as of April 2024.
The symptoms associated with infection mirror those of other Omicron subvariants including sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever, and potential loss of taste or smell.
FLiRT variants especially KP.2, exhibit increased transmissibility and the ability to evade immunity from prior infection and vaccines.
This concerns about the potential for a new wave of infections particularly in regions with high population density and varying levels of vaccination.
Experts address the importance of vigilance and adherence to preventive measures such as wearing masks, practicing good hand hygiene, maintaining physical distance, avoiding large gatherings, and staying home when feeling unwell.
Vaccination programs should consider recommendations from organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and prioritize populations most at risk.
Ongoing surveillance and monitoring of new variants are essential to inform public health strategies. FLiRT variants while circulating in the U.S., have also been observed in other countries such as the UK, New Zealand, and South Korea.
Measures:
- Practice good hand hygiene
- Wear masks in crowded or indoor settings
- Maintain physical distance from others
- Avoid large gatherings
- Stay home when feeling unwell
- Get vaccinated against COVID-19
- Follow public health guidelines and recommendations
- Stay informed about the latest developments and updates regarding FLiRT variants.
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