New symptoms are emerging as the new COVID variant FLiRT spreads globally. This has raised concerns about a possible summer spike in cases after 4.5 years.
The New FLiRT COVID Symptoms
The FLiRT variants, named after their genetic mutations, are increasing in the U.S. and Europe as the coronavirus continues to evolve.
The new COVID variant is a direct descendant of the JN.1 variant, a type of omicron. There is, however, little evidence that they are more serious, but they have independently acquired the same mutations, according to the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.
The term “FLiRT variants” describes a family of variants, including KP.2, JN.1.7, and others starting with KP or JN. They have independently acquired the same mutations, known as convergent evolution.
The specific mutations, referred to as “FLiRT” or “FLip,” occur at positions 456, 346, and 572 in the spike protein. SARS-CoV-2 frequently mutates to cross-over antibodies, often reducing its ability to attach to cells.
Then, mutations that improve binding appear. The repeated appearance of these mutations shows that they are important for the virus.
These mutations, particularly 456 and 346, remove sites where antibodies typically attach and neutralize the virus. Yet, these sites are also important for the virus to hold to and enter cells.
Thus, while fighting antibodies, FLiRT variants may have weakened their ability to bind to cells. However, the 572 mutation seems to improve the virus’s ability to tightly bind to cells, facilitating infection.
Current Condition of The COVID-19 New Variant
KP.2 is now the dominant strain in the U.S., making up 28.2% of all cases in the two weeks leading up to May 11, according to the CDC. This is a significant increase from 3.8% at the end of March, shortly after the strain was first identified.
Cases of KP.1.1, another FLiRT variant, now account for 7.1% of current infections, according to the CDC. The variant has also been detected in 14 European countries.
The World Health Organization reported that while overall FLiRT COVID symptoms have been less, some countries are seeing slight increases from very low levels.
The UK Health Security Agency is monitoring the new variants’ data regarding Flirt COVID symptoms and vaccine effectiveness. In a statement last week, they said that there is no change to public health advice at this time.
Jennifer Horney, an epidemiology professor at the University of Delaware, said regarding FLiRT COVID, it is unlikely the new strains will cause a major wave of infections due to higher public immunity. However, she expects an increase in cases during the summer.
Jennifer Horney told CNBC in an email that while our COVID-19 has progressed, the new Flirt COVID symptoms will likely increase case numbers in the US over the next few months.
She said that many Flirt COVID symptoms will likely be mild due to existing immunity. However, health experts will closely monitor the effectiveness of current vaccines against these variants.
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