Global Surge: EG.5 Variant Spreads, Covid-19 Infections Soar

The EG.5 variant of the Covid-19 virus, also known as "eris," is gaining ground globally, with recent testing confirming its increased prevalence and immune escape properties. This variant, along with its subvariant EG.5.1, has been reported in multiple countries, accounting for a significant percentage of Covid-19 infections. While hospital admissions have seen modest increases in some countries, there have been no reported changes in disease severity. Experts warn of potential future threats from mutations seen in EG.5, which can reduce the effectiveness of antibodies and increase the virus's ability to bind to cell receptors. New versions of vaccines and antiviral drugs are being developed to address the EG.5 lineage.