A new COVID-19 variant Eris (EG.5) is on the rise in the United States: Experts warn of a possible new wave of COVID-19
While the COVID-19 outbreak feels like it’s been a long time since its initial days, some new variants are emerging and probably will continue to emerge for quite some time. So, being prepared is important. This summer, new subtypes of the original COVID-19 strain have emerged in the United States, including EG.5 (also known as Eris) and BA.2.86.
According to the latest report from the CDC, this newly identified variant is spreading more widely in the United States and causing new cases. Initially known as EG.5, this variant is believed to be responsible for about 17.3% of COVID cases in the US in August, which is more than 7.5% higher than in July.
Eris is one of several closely related Omicron subtypes that have emerged recently, contributing to increased transmission. To understand more about this new variant and its potential to create new waves of COVID, keep reading.
What is the EG.5 COVID variant?
As viruses evolve over time, it was only a matter of time before another new strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, which causes COVID-19, emerged and spread. This summer’s variant, known as EG.5, or Eris for short, has been identified as having a higher responsibility for COVID-19 cases, around 17.3% in the US, compared to other strains.EG.5 was discovered in February as a response to the Omicron variant.
Note that, apart from the concerning changes, the original Omicron strain, SARS-CoV-2 virus, and other less worrying Alpha and Delta variants are still in circulation.
Also Read: FDA Approves Pfizer’s Abrysvo As First Vaccine for Pregnant Women to Protect Babies From RSV
Is EG.5 Variant Worrisome?
The recently discovered COVID-19 variant, EG.5, has a new mutation in its spike protein that helps the virus enter host cells. This mutation potentially allows the virus to partially evade immunity acquired from previous infections.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has labeled EG.5 as a “variant of interest,” indicating that countries should monitor it more closely than other strains, as it carries changes that could potentially make it more transmissible or severe.
What are the Symptoms of EG.5 COVID-19 Variant?
Similar to other Omicron variants, EG.5 mostly affects the upper respiratory tract, causing symptoms like a runny nose, sore throat, and cold-like symptoms. Unlike other more severe lower respiratory tract symptoms, such as coughing or shortness of breath, are not commonly associated with EG.5. Here are 10 symptoms associated with this new variant that should not be ignored:
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Sore throat
- Cough and sneezing
- Body aches or muscle pain
- Eye discomfort or pain
- Feeling nauseous or vomiting
- Diarrhea
- Breathing difficulties or discomfort (in very few cases)
Experts believe that the newly discovered COVID-19 variant, EG.5, is more transmissible than other COVID-19 strains due to a “modestly beneficial mutation” it carries compared to other strains.
