Understanding FLiRT COVID Variants: Contagion, Severity, and Prevention

The FLiRT group of COVID variants has been circulating since the beginning of the year, with some areas replacing the dominant JN.1 variant. As these variants spread rapidly, a crucial question arises: Are FLiRT variants more contagious than their predecessors? To answer this, let’s delve into the characteristics of these variants and the measures to stay safe.

The FLiRT variants, including KP.2, JN.1.7, and others starting with KP or JN, share identical mutations through convergent evolution. They all originated from the JN.1 variant. According to Dr. Aaron Glatt, chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau Hospital, there is no evidence of an uptick in disease or hospitalizations, likely due to the immunity many people have gained from prior illness and vaccination.

However, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data suggests that COVID-related hospitalizations have risen slightly since April, and the number of patients in emergency departments who have tested positive for COVID has increased since May. This trend is consistent with data from a year ago. To combat this, health regulators have asked vaccine manufacturers to design new versions of the COVID-19 vaccines to better target circulating variants. The European regulator has recommended targeting the JN.1 variant, while the US regulator has suggested targeting variants within the JN.1 lineage, with the preferred strain being KP.2.

Some experts argue that the assumption that all COVID variants have similar symptoms and are milder is incorrect. Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, a UC San Francisco infectious diseases expert, suggests that we should remain open to the possibility that some people may experience worse symptoms. In fact, people have shared their experiences with FLiRT COVID variants, describing unpleasant symptoms such as recurring fever, severe congestion, sinus pressure, and headaches. In some cases, the throat pain is so intense it feels like razor blades.

To stay safe from FLiRT COVID variants, it is essential to adhere to preventive measures. Firstly, prioritize vaccination to boost immunity against severe illness and reduce transmission. Secondly, practice consistent hand hygiene and wear masks in crowded or indoor settings, especially in areas with high transmission rates. Thirdly, maintain physical distance from others, particularly if unvaccinated or in poorly ventilated spaces. Lastly, stay informed about local guidelines and updates from health authorities to adjust behaviors accordingly.

By following these measures, we can collectively mitigate the spread and impact of FLiRT variants amid ongoing global efforts to manage COVID-19.

Historical Context:

The COVID-19 pandemic has been ongoing since December 2019, with various variants emerging and spreading globally. The JN.1 variant was previously dominant, but the FLiRT group of variants has been circulating since the beginning of the year, replacing it in some areas. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has been monitoring the situation and providing guidance on vaccination and prevention measures.

Summary in Bullet Points:

• The FLiRT group of COVID variants, including KP.2, JN.1.7, and others, share identical mutations through convergent evolution and originated from the JN.1 variant. • There is no evidence of an uptick in disease or hospitalizations, likely due to immunity gained from prior illness and vaccination. • CDC data shows a slight increase in COVID-related hospitalizations since April and emergency department cases since May, consistent with data from a year ago. • Health regulators have asked vaccine manufacturers to design new versions of the COVID-19 vaccines to target circulating variants, with the European regulator recommending targeting the JN.1 variant and the US regulator suggesting targeting variants within the JN.1 lineage, with KP.2 as the preferred strain. • Some experts argue that not all COVID variants have similar symptoms and may be milder, and that some people may experience worse symptoms. • Symptoms reported by people infected with FLiRT COVID variants include recurring fever, severe congestion, sinus pressure, and headaches, with some experiencing intense throat pain. • To stay safe, prioritize vaccination, practice consistent hand hygiene, wear masks in crowded or indoor settings, maintain physical distance from others, and stay informed about local guidelines and updates from health authorities. • Following these measures can help mitigate the spread and impact of FLiRT variants amid ongoing global efforts to manage COVID-19.