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Variant

All articles tagged with #variant

Severe Flu Season Emerges in U.S. with New Variant and Rising Concerns
health2 months ago

Severe Flu Season Emerges in U.S. with New Variant and Rising Concerns

A new H3N2 flu variant, subclade K, is spreading in Southern California, raising concerns among health experts. Although the current flu activity is low, the variant is not covered by this season's vaccine, but vaccination and preventive measures like handwashing and masks are recommended to reduce severe illness. The flu season is expected to peak in January and February.

US ramps up response to emerging mpox variants and outbreaks
health4 months ago

US ramps up response to emerging mpox variants and outbreaks

A new mpox variant, known as clade Ib, is spreading in communities in the US and Europe, with California reporting cases that suggest undetected local transmission. While the overall risk remains low, public health officials are concerned about the potential for wider spread, especially as vaccination efforts continue and surveillance methods evolve. The outbreak highlights challenges in monitoring and controlling mpox, particularly amid reduced public health resources and the importance of community-led initiatives.

Rise of Highly Transmissible COVID Variants 'Stratus' and 'Nimbus' Fueling US Infection Wave
health5 months ago

Rise of Highly Transmissible COVID Variants 'Stratus' and 'Nimbus' Fueling US Infection Wave

A new highly transmissible COVID-19 variant called Stratus is on the rise in the U.S., accounting for about 85% of cases, with symptoms similar to earlier strains. Prevention and treatment remain consistent with previous COVID protocols, and existing vaccines are still considered effective. Recent changes in vaccination guidelines now recommend individual decision-making rather than universal vaccination, leading to some confusion.

Understanding the Symptoms and Spread of the New COVID Variant 'Stratus'
health7 months ago

Understanding the Symptoms and Spread of the New COVID Variant 'Stratus'

A new COVID variant called Stratus (XFG) is spreading in the US, with symptoms similar to other variants including hoarseness, fever, cough, and loss of taste or smell. The variant, first identified in Southeast Asia, now accounts for about 14% of cases and is considered low risk by WHO. COVID cases are rising across 40 states, especially in the South, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest, following typical seasonal waves.

New COVID Variant 'Stratus' Spreading Globally: Symptoms to Watch For
health7 months ago

New COVID Variant 'Stratus' Spreading Globally: Symptoms to Watch For

A new COVID variant called XFG or 'Stratus' is spreading in the U.S. and globally, accounting for up to 14% of cases in the U.S. as of late June. It is a combination of variants F.7 and LP.8.1.2, with mutations that may help it evade immune responses but is less contagious and not associated with more severe disease. Current vaccines are expected to remain effective against it, and symptoms are similar to other COVID variants, with some reports of hoarseness.

Summer COVID Surge: Causes and Safety Tips
health7 months ago

Summer COVID Surge: Causes and Safety Tips

Covid cases are rising across 27 U.S. states this summer, driven by the dominant Omicron offshoot N.B.1.8.1, with experts suggesting a potential small surge. While new vaccines targeting the LP.8.1 strain are expected in fall mainly for high-risk groups, current population immunity may help prevent severe illness, and high-risk individuals are advised to consider vaccination and indoor masking.

New COVID Variants 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus' Cause Sharp Throat Symptoms
health8 months ago

New COVID Variants 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus' Cause Sharp Throat Symptoms

A new COVID-19 variant called Nimbus is spreading in the U.S., causing severe sore throats described as 'razor blade' pain, and now accounts for over a third of cases nationwide. While it does not seem to pose a greater public health threat than other variants, it is being closely monitored. Vaccines remain effective against Nimbus, but recent changes in vaccination recommendations have caused confusion about eligibility.

Nimbus COVID Variant Spreads Across 13 States with Unique Symptoms
health8 months ago

Nimbus COVID Variant Spreads Across 13 States with Unique Symptoms

A new Covid variant called Nimbus has been detected in 13 US states, showing increased infectivity and a unique symptom called 'razor blade throat.' Despite its spread, global health authorities believe current vaccines remain effective, and updates to vaccines are underway to better target this strain. Experts warn of a potential summer surge due to waning immunity and increased indoor activity.