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Eris Variant

All articles tagged with #eris variant

health2 years ago

COVID-19 Eris strain detected in Guam: Two confirmed cases

Two cases of the EG.5 (Eris) sub variant of Omicron, a new variant of COVID-19, have been confirmed on Guam. Although the variant is transmissible, it is not as severe. The Department of Public Health and Social Services is monitoring the situation and urging the community to practice preventative measures. Individuals experiencing symptoms should stay home and seek medical care, get tested, and self-quarantine while waiting for results. Free COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots are available, but starting in fall 2023, vaccines may come at a cost depending on health insurance plans.

health2 years ago

"COVID Variants, Flesh-Eating Bacteria Warning, and Vaccination Recommendations: Stay Informed for the Upcoming Respiratory Virus Season"

The CDC reports a significant rise in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations in the U.S., with an 18% increase in new COVID hospital admissions compared to the previous week. The Eris (EG.5) variant, which has become the dominant strain in the U.S., is spreading rapidly but is not considered a serious threat. The Pirola (BA.2.86) variant, with multiple mutations in the spike protein, is causing concern, although studies suggest that updated vaccines should still provide good protection against it. In addition, the CDC has issued a health advisory on fatal Vibrio vulnificus infections, also known as flesh-eating bacteria, which are more likely to occur in warm coastal waters and can be contracted through contact with contaminated shellfish or open wounds. Prompt treatment is crucial, and physicians should consider V. vulnificus as a possible cause of infection in patients with underlying health conditions.

health2 years ago

"Expert Advice: Safeguarding Against the New COVID Variant, as Recommended by Sedgwick County Health Department"

The Sedgwick County Health Department in Kansas is advising residents to protect themselves from the new COVID-19 variant called Eris, which is responsible for over 20% of cases in the United States. The Eris variant presents with different symptoms, such as a runny nose and sore throat, compared to previous strains. While these symptoms may seem mild, total COVID hospitalizations and deaths have increased by more than 15%. The health department recommends getting vaccinated to prevent severe illness and hospitalization. Production of the new COVID vaccine is underway and awaiting approval, expected later this month. Updates on vaccine availability can be found on the Sedgwick County Health Department's website.

health2 years ago

"Insights from KC Doctors on Eris, the New COVID-19 Variant"

KC area doctors are providing information on the Eris variant, the latest COVID-19 variant that has become dominant in the area. Similar to the Omicron variant, Eris may be more transmissible and could evade antibodies more readily. Doctors anticipate an adjusted booster shot for Eris. While it may not be as deadly as older variants, they urge people to take this strain seriously and consider the risk to vulnerable populations.

health2 years ago

"Atlanta College and Hollywood Studio Reinstate Mask Mandates Amidst Rising Covid Cases"

Morris Brown College in Atlanta and Lionsgate, a Hollywood studio, have both reinstated mask mandates due to rising Covid-19 cases attributed to the Eris variant. The college has also canceled parties and large student events, while Lionsgate has implemented additional Covid-19 protocols. Covid-19 hospitalizations have increased by 30% statewide in Georgia. The Eris variant is currently responsible for 20.6% of Covid cases and is considered to pose a similar level of risk as existing variants by the World Health Organization. It remains to be seen if other colleges, studios, or businesses will follow suit in reinstating mask mandates.

health2 years ago

"Delaying Next Covid Booster: Doctors Advise Waiting for Fall Rollout"

New Covid boosters targeting the Eris variant and other XBB subvariants are pending FDA approval and expected to be available in late September. These monovalent boosters are recommended by experts as they offer better protection against the currently dominant strains in the US. The existing bivalent boosters, designed for earlier strains, have lower effectiveness against the Eris variant. While the CDC still recommends bivalent boosters for most people, waiting for the new monovalent boosters may provide a better match to the circulating variants.

health2 years ago

"COVID-19 Cases Surge in Saint Lucia with 450 Recorded"

Saint Lucia has recorded 450 cases of COVID-19 to date, despite a generally low testing rate, according to the Ministry of Health. The rise in cases is attributed to the Eris variant, which has been found in the US and UK. While there has been an increase in patients with respiratory symptoms, many individuals are doing COVID-19 tests at home, potentially leading to underreporting of cases. The Ministry of Health is closely monitoring the situation and encourages individuals to get tested and take preventative measures. Additionally, gastroenteritis cases are also on the rise in the country.

health2 years ago

Boosting Protection: New Covid Vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax Effective Against Eris Variant

New Covid vaccines from Pfizer, Moderna, and Novavax, designed to target the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, are expected to provide substantial protection against the new Eris variant, which is now the dominant strain in the U.S. The vaccines are awaiting FDA approval and will likely be available in about a month. Initial data suggests that the updated shots will be effective against Eris and other widely circulating variants. Eris accounted for 17.3% of all cases in the U.S., surpassing XBB.1.5. Health experts believe the vaccines will be effective due to the genetic similarity between Eris and XBB.1.5. Moderna reported a "significant boost" in protective antibodies against Eris and another variant in a clinical trial, while Pfizer stated that its shot "effectively neutralized" Eris in a study on mice. Experts recommend discussing individual circumstances with doctors to determine whether to get currently available boosters or wait for the new vaccines.

health2 years ago

Moderna's Updated COVID Vaccine Effective Against 'Eris' Variant, Boosts Antibodies

Moderna has announced that initial study data shows its updated COVID-19 vaccine to be effective against the "Eris" and "Fornax" subvariants in humans. Pending approval from health regulators, the updated shot is expected to be available in the coming weeks for the fall vaccination season. Pfizer has also reported that its updated COVID-19 shot, developed with BioNTech, showed neutralizing activity against the Eris subvariant in a study conducted on mice. The Eris subvariant, similar to the XBB.1.5 subvariant, accounted for over 17% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. COVID-19 related hospitalizations in the U.S. have increased by more than 40% from June, but remain over 90% below peak levels during the Omicron outbreak in January 2022.

health2 years ago

Moderna's Updated COVID Vaccine Proven Effective Against Eris Variant

Moderna's new Covid vaccine has shown a strong immune response against the Eris variant and another rapidly spreading strain in an early clinical trial. The vaccine, designed to target the omicron subvariant XBB.1.5, may also be effective against newer variants like Eris and Fornax. Pfizer's updated Covid shot has also demonstrated effectiveness against XBB.1.5 and Eris in a recent trial on mice. The vaccines from Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax are expected to be rolled out pending FDA approvals.

health2 years ago

Unmasking the Culprits: Exploring the Surge in COVID-19 Variants

COVID-19 infections are increasing again in August 2023, with daily hospital admissions up over 70% from mid-June in the United States. The Eris variant (EG.5) is being attributed to the current surge. Data from EPIC and Walgreens show significant increases in infections, test positivity rate, and emergency department visits. Hospitalizations are a delayed indicator, suggesting further increases. Long COVID is a concern, with evidence of lasting central nervous system damage and persistent symptoms in some patients. However, there is still a lack of solid data on the short- and long-term risks of COVID-19, hindering accurate tracking and projection of the pandemic's impact.

health2 years ago

Scientists Urge Reinforcement of Face Mask Usage in COVID Fight

As the new COVID-19 variant, Eris, spreads rapidly across the globe, scientists are urging people to wear masks again. Multiple studies have shown that masks, including cloth masks, surgical masks, and N95 respirators, are effective in reducing the risk of COVID-19 transmission. While some previous studies cast doubt on mask efficacy, experts clarify that these interpretations were flawed. Wearing masks can help protect both individuals and the community by reducing the risk of infection and the spread of the virus. With Eris being a highly immune evasive variant, masks become even more important as booster vaccinations may not provide sufficient protection. Masks, along with ventilation, can help reduce the risk of high viral load exposure.

health2 years ago

"Insurance Coverage for Next Covid Booster: What to Expect"

The emergence of the EG.5 variant, a subvariant of omicron, has raised concerns about the need for new Covid booster shots. The availability and coverage of these boosters by insurance companies will vary, with some pharmacies able to provide information on coverage. Employers are encouraged to cover the cost of booster shots to protect their employees and promote a safe working environment. For those without insurance, free booster shots may be available through local public health authorities. The symptoms of the EG.5 variant are similar to previous subvariants of omicron, and vaccination remains the best protection against severe illness. Basic preventive measures such as handwashing and mask usage for high-risk individuals are also recommended.

health2 years ago

Surge in COVID-19 Cases Sweeps Across the Nation and Local Communities

Despite the emergence of the Eris variant, a subvariant of Omicron, experts believe that the current spike in COVID-19 cases in East Tennessee will remain manageable. Dr. Robert Wilson of Covenant Health is cautiously optimistic, noting an increase in cases among those who have not traveled outside the community. While COVID-related hospitalizations and positivity rates are rising nationally, Wilson advises people to remain vigilant, get vaccinated, practice good hygiene, and get tested early if experiencing symptoms or exposure. The CDC recommends staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations, as studies have shown a decrease in protection against mild and moderate cases over time.