Rapidly Spreading Pirola and BA.2.86 Variants Raise Concerns

A new variant of COVID-19 called Pirola, also known as BA.2.86, has experts concerned due to its highly mutated spike protein. The variant has been detected in multiple countries and is spreading rapidly. The transmissibility, ability to bypass immune defenses, and severity of Pirola are still unknown. Current vaccines and booster shots are expected to provide some level of protection against severe disease and hospitalization caused by the variant. Experts emphasize the importance of continuing preventive measures such as masking, vaccination, and hand-washing to avoid infection.