By Deepali Mallya
The Covid concerns seem to be far from over as researchers in the US have isolated two new subvariants of Covid termed as FLiRT.
The new Covid variant has led to concerns. It is said that the new subvariants have the capability of evading the immune system.
About “FLiRT,” the Infectious Disease Society of America explains this nomenclature stands for the technical names of the mutations.
FLiRT has its origins traced to SARS-CoV-2 Omicron variant JN.1. and has two major variants termed as KP.1.1 and KP.2.
Surveillance reports indicate an augmented surge in the number of cases of FLiRT from 3.9% in March to nearly 24.9% by the end of April 2024.
The FLiRT variant has not been reported anywhere outside the US so far, including in India.
Like the other COVID-19 lineages, the conventional antigen and RT PCR tests have been used in identifying the novel variant too.
Although the variant is not life-threatening, those with comorbidities, aged 65 years and older are advised to get an additional updated COVID-19 vaccine in spring 2024 in the US.
Paxlovid, an antiviral medication, continues to be effective against emerging SARS-CoV-2 variants, including JN.1.