New FLiRT Variants of COVID-19 Emerging in the US
A new family of variants of COVID-19, dubbed the ‘FLiRT’ variants, is making headlines in the United States. These variants, stemming from the dangerous Omicron lineage, specifically the JN.1 variant that triggered a surge in cases earlier this year, are causing concern among health officials.
FLiRT Variants and Their Composition
The name FLiRT stands for the technical names of the mutations they carry. One variant contains mutations represented by the letters F and L, while another variant features mutations represented by R and T. Among these variants, one variant, KP.2, is particularly worrisome due to its rising prevalence.
Concern Over KP.2 Variant
Data from the US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reveals that the KP.2 variant accounted for approximately 25% of newly sequenced cases during the two weeks ending on April 27. This significant presence raises concerns about its potential impact on public health.
Varying Spread of FLiRT Variants
While KP.2 has gained prominence, other FLiRT variants like KP.1.1 have not spread as widely in the US. This variance in spread highlights the complex dynamics of variant transmission and underscores the need for continued vigilance and monitoring.
Stay updated for more developments on the FLiRT variants and their implications for public health.
