The Liberty Conservative News: New FLiRT Variant, KP.2, Takes Lead in U.S. COVID-19 Infections
According to the latest estimates from the CDC, a new fast-growing strain of FLiRT variants known as KP.2 is now the dominant variant in the U.S., accounting for over a third of COVID-19 cases. Along with another FLiRT variant, KP.1.1, these strains now make up 35.3% of infections, a significant increase from just 7.1% a month ago.
Despite its prevalence, the KP.2 variant is not causing an increase in infections as the transmission of SARS-CoV-2 remains low. However, the FDA has delayed a crucial step in selecting strains for this fall’s COVID-19 vaccines due to the rapid rise of circulating variants.
The KP.2 variant, along with the JN.1.16 variant, is responsible for a large percentage of COVID-19 cases nationwide. These FLiRT variants are named for distinctive mutations in the spike protein of the virus, with KP.2 and KP.1.1 being the most prominent strains in the U.S.
Although the FLiRT variants do not appear to cause different symptoms or more severe illness, the KP.2 variant may evade antibodies more effectively. The emergence of variants like KP.2 could impact the selection of vaccines for the upcoming fall and winter seasons, with Pfizer and Novavax already conducting studies on their vaccines’ efficacy against the variant.
The FDA has postponed a meeting to determine the most suitable vaccine target for the next season due to the changing dominant strains of SARS-CoV-2. As researchers continue to monitor the situation, it is essential to stay informed and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of these FLiRT variants.
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