New covid-19 variant sees sudden spike in the US

WASHINGTON: Recent data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) revealed the prevalence of the “KP.3” covid-19 variant in the United States.

According to the CDC’s latest data tracker covering the period from June 23 to July 6, 2024, the KP.3 variant has emerged as the dominant strain. It constitutes 36.9 per cent of positive infections across the US.

Read more: New covid wave grips UK as KP.3 variant wreaks havoc

The KP.3 variant is part of the Omicron-derived “JN.1” lineage. The latest variant is continuing to increase steadily and is expected to maintain its predominance in the coming weeks.

Following closely behind KP.3 is the KP.2 variant, which accounts for 24.4 per cent of infections, indicating its substantial presence but trailing the KP.3 variant.

Meanwhile, the LB.1 variant has shown a slight decrease from 17.5 per cent to 14.5 per cent of infections during the same period, underscoring its ongoing impact in the variant landscape.

Similar to its predecessor JN.1, the KP.3 variant exhibits comparable symptoms and transmissibility. Common symptoms include fever or chills, cough, fatigue, and loss of taste or smell, aligning with general COVID-19 symptomatology.

However, specific symptoms unique to the KP.3 variant have not been identified by the CDC.

Recent weeks have witnessed a spike in covide-19 cases across several US states, particularly in the western region. Although not indicative of a countrywide surge yet, localised increases suggest a potential trend towards higher infection rates.

Factors contributing to this trend include increased summer travel and indoor gatherings amidst rising temperatures.

LB.1 and recent variants share a symptomatic profile similar to earlier Omicron subvariants, characterised by respiratory symptoms, sore throat, cough, and fatigue.

There is currently no evidence indicating LB.1 causes more severe illness compared to previous strains.

Existing covide-19 vaccines are able to provide protection against severe illness and hospitalisation. The upcoming 2024–2025 vaccine update is expected to bolster immunity against prevalent variants such as KP.3 and LB.1.

To combat the spread of COVID-19 variants, the CDC recommends to get vaccinated as soon as possible. Everyone aged 6 months and older should receive covid-19 vaccines, including booster doses as recommended, the CDC said.

Besides vaccines, the CDC strongly recommended wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, regular handwashing.

Read more: Should we be concerned about a summer covid surge?

For people who have tested positive for covide-19, they are advised to should isolate and seek medical care if symptoms worsen or persist.