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Eg5 Variant

All articles tagged with #eg5 variant

health2 years ago

"Emerging COVID Variants: Symptoms, Spread, and Concerns"

Public health officials are concerned about the BA.2.86 variant, nicknamed "Pirola," which has more than 30 mutations to its spike protein. It is unclear if this variant can bypass immune defenses from natural infection and prior vaccination. Symptoms associated with BA.2.86 infections are still unknown due to limited case numbers. Existing tests and medications for COVID-19 appear to be effective against BA.2.86. The EG.5 variant, also known as "Eris," is more transmissible than the previous XBB.1.16 variant but does not cause more severe illness in most cases. It typically causes upper-respiratory tract symptoms, including runny nose and sore throat. A new booster shot targeting the XBB.1.5 subvariant is expected to boost immunity against EG.5.

health2 years ago

"Unraveling the Eris Variant: Symptoms, Transmission, and Concerns"

The EG.5 variant, also known as "Eris," has become the dominant strain of COVID-19 globally, with a significant increase in infections over the past four weeks. It is believed to be more transmissible and can evade antibodies, potentially making it easier to catch and transmit. The symptoms of EG.5 are similar to other strains of COVID-19, primarily affecting the upper airway. While there is no specific vaccine for EG.5, experts anticipate that the forthcoming COVID-19 booster targeting a similar subvariant will offer some level of protection. To protect against EG.5, it is advised to practice handwashing, consider masking in crowded indoor spaces, get tested if exhibiting symptoms, and maintain a healthy lifestyle to support the immune system.

health2 years ago

Africa CDC and NCDC Address New COVID-19 Variants Spreading in Africa

The Africa CDC has issued a statement on the new COVID-19 strain, EG.5, which has been designated as a variant of interest by the WHO. Over 13,000 sequences of EG.5 have been reported in 59 countries across five regions. While there has been an increase in hospitalizations in certain countries, there is currently no evidence of an association between EG.5 and severity or hospitalization of COVID-19 cases. The Africa CDC recommends accelerating the immunization of high-risk populations, strengthening surveillance systems, reinforcing genomic surveillance, conducting epidemiological investigations, and sharing data on emerging variants. The Africa CDC will continue to monitor the situation and provide further guidance as more information becomes available.

health2 years ago

Eris: The Dominant Covid Variant EG. 5 Causing Rising Hospitalizations in the US

The EG5 variant of Covid-19, also known as Eris, is now responsible for almost one-fifth of cases in the United States, leading to a slight increase in hospitalizations. The strain has surpassed several Omicron descendants in terms of prevalence. The rise in hospital admissions is attributed to increased socializing, waning immunity, and relaxed precautions. Experts suggest that the EG5 variant may have a slight advantage due to a beneficial mutation. Symptoms of Eris are similar to those of Omicron, including a runny or stuffy nose, headaches, fatigue, and changes in the sense of smell. The CDC advises individuals to isolate, wear masks, practice good hygiene, and seek over-the-counter treatments for symptom management. It is also recommended to stay updated on vaccines and booster shots.

health2 years ago

Surge in COVID-19 cases and new variant sparks concern among medical experts

Medical experts are warning about the rise in COVID-19 cases due to the EG.5 variant, also known as Eris. The variant is causing a spike in hospitalizations, particularly among individuals with underlying health conditions and the elderly. However, it is not as severe as the Delta variant and does not pose a higher risk to children. A new booster shot is expected to be available in the fall, which will be more omicron-based and help boost immunity. In the meantime, there is a high demand for at-home COVID testing kits. It is advised to maintain vaccination status, practice social distancing, hand hygiene, and stay updated on vaccination status to prevent hospitalizations.

health2 years ago

WHO Raises Global Concerns as New COVID Variant 'EG.5' Spreads Rapidly

The World Health Organization has raised concerns about the rapid spread of a new COVID-19 variant, EG.5, which poses a similar level of global risk as existing variants. This variant, also known as Eris, is the most dominant subvariant of Omicron and is more transmissible than other strains. PCR tests or at-home tests are recommended for testing, and symptoms include coughing, sore throat, fatigue, and loss of smell. High-risk individuals should take extra precautions, such as staying up to date with booster shots, wearing masks, and maintaining distance from others.

health2 years ago

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.

health2 years ago

EG.5: The Dominant and Concerning New Covid Variant in the U.S.

The EG.5 "Eris" variant, a subvariant of the Omicron lineage, is currently dominating COVID-19 cases in the U.S. and has been found in over 50 countries. While classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization (WHO), there is currently no evidence of increased disease severity associated with EG.5. COVID-19 hospitalizations have increased by over 40% from recent lows, but remain significantly below peak levels. Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax have developed new versions of their vaccines to target another Omicron sublineage, XBB.1.5, which is similar to EG.5. These updated vaccines are expected to be widely available in the U.S. by the third or fourth week of September.

health2 years ago

COVID-19 cases surge in McCracken County

McCracken County in Kentucky is experiencing a spike in COVID-19 cases, reporting 52 cases this week compared to eight the previous week. This increase coincides with the return of students to school. Health officials anticipate a new COVID-19 vaccine to be released in September or October, but it is not guaranteed. The local health department is unsure if the new EG.5 variant is responsible for the surge, but symptoms are not expected to be different. Pharmacies anticipate an increase in COVID-related issues during the winter months. People are advised to take necessary precautions based on their risk factors.

health2 years ago

Emerging EG.5 Variant: Concerns Rise as it Spreads Across the US

The EG.5 variant of COVID-19 is now the most prevalent variant in the U.S., accounting for over 17% of cases. It has high transmissibility and can evade immunity. While the variant is increasing rapidly, the total case numbers are still relatively low. Symptoms and disease potential are similar to other variants, and existing antivirals and diagnostic tests should work against it. The mid-year spike in cases is likely due to a combination of EG.5 and waning population immunity. The new vaccine set for release in the fall is expected to offer better protection against EG.5 and other variants. While the general population need not be highly concerned, vulnerable individuals should consider getting tested and accessing antivirals if needed. It is recommended to wait for the new fall vaccine for better protection. High-risk individuals may consider wearing masks or practicing social distancing.

health2 years ago

WHO identifies EG.5 as a concerning COVID-19 variant spreading in UK and US

The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the EG.5 coronavirus strain as a "variant of interest," noting its increased transmissibility. However, the WHO stated that EG.5 does not appear to pose a greater threat to public health compared to other variants. The variant is currently the most prevalent in the United States and has been detected in several other countries. The WHO called on countries to share COVID-19 data, expressing concern over the lack of reporting, which hampers efforts to combat the virus.

health2 years ago

"Unraveling the EG.5 Coronavirus Variant: Symptoms and Rapid Spread"

The EG.5 subvariant of the Omicron variant is now the dominant strain of COVID-19 in the United States, accounting for 17.3% of new cases. It is considered a descendant of the XBB lineage and has shown increased transmissibility. However, there is no evidence that EG.5 causes more severe illness. Hospitalizations have increased in the U.S., but it is unclear if EG.5 is responsible. Vaccines and past infections should provide protection against severe illness. Updated boosters are not specifically designed for EG.5 but may still offer some protection. Symptoms of EG.5 are likely similar to other Omicron subvariants.