There is a new variant of the coronavirus circulating out there. KP.2, a member of the so-called FliRT variants, named for its mutations, has become the dominant strain of the coronavirus in the United States, according to the country’s Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). These FliRT variants share certain mutations in common but still belong to the Omicron family of the coronavirus.
What are the symptoms of the new infection?
The majority of people who contract the coronavirus will never know which variant is causing their symptoms. The symptoms of Covid-19 infection generally include a runny nose, sore throat, headache, fever, cough, and body aches. Some people may experience more severe symptoms, such as shortness of breath. Covid-19 can also exacerbate underlying conditions, such as heart failure.
Is a home test still reliable?
Rapid home antigen tests are an easy and convenient method for screening Covid-19, although they are not as reliable or accurate as laboratory PCR tests. There is no indication that home tests are less effective in detecting this new variant compared to previous variants.
Do vaccines still work against the new strain?
Existing vaccines should still be effective against KP.2. The CDC has issued guidance recommending a second dose of the vaccine that was first rolled out in the fall of 2023 for people aged 65 and older.
Federal health authorities are expected to recommend a newly formulated version of the Covid-19 vaccine in the fall. The new vaccines are expected to differ from the current vaccines in that the latest vaccines will target the variants anticipated to circulate during the fall and winter. If health authorities predict that KP.2 will be among these variants, the fall vaccines will likely be even more effective against KP.2.
How long should people isolate if they contract Covid-19?
Earlier this year, the CDC lifted the five-day isolation requirement. Now, the agency recommends that people diagnosed with Covid-19 stay home until they have been fever-free for at least 24 hours and their symptoms have improved. For the next five days, they should still try to take additional precautions, such as wearing a mask and limiting close contact with others.
Who should consider antiviral treatments if they contract Covid-19?
People at high risk of developing severe illness caused by Covid-19 should consider antiviral treatments. This high-risk category includes older individuals, immunocompromised people, and those with serious underlying medical conditions.
Source: CNN