FLIRT - SCI & TECH
News: All about FLiRT, the new
COVID-19 variants
What's in the news?
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The COVID-19 cycle has regained momentum with the
emergence of new ‘FLiRT’ variants.
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KP.2 and KP1.1 are descendants of the Omicron JN.1 variant, which
proliferated worldwide.
FLiRT Variants:
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The FLiRT variants are new strains of the
SARS-CoV-2 virus that have emerged in the United
States.
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They are distant relatives of the Omicron variant.
Variants:
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Two main strains have been identified within the
FLiRT group - KP.2 and KP.1.1.
Caused by:
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These variants were first detected in wastewater
samples across the country and are descendants of the JN.1 lineage.
Reasons for Concern:
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Scientists are concerned that KP.2 and KP.1.1 may
be more adept at evading the immune
system due to mutations in their spike
proteins.
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Factors such as waning immunity and suboptimal
uptake of the latest COVID-19 vaccines raise concerns about a potential surge
in infections during the summer.
Symptoms:
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Symptoms associated with FLiRT variants largely
mirror those of other COVID-19 strains, including fever, cough, fatigue, and
respiratory difficulties.
Vaccination:
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While vaccines remain effective against FLiRT
variants, maintaining up-to-date booster shots is crucial to bolster protection
against them.
Situation in India:
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India’s SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG)
has identified 238 cases of KP.2 and 30 cases of KP1.1 as of May 6.
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India has witnessed a resurgence in cases since
early April, with a significant rise in positivity rates.