Los Angeles, California – As warmer weather approaches, a concerning new set of COVID-19 variants, dubbed FLiRT, has emerged in wastewater surveillance, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The CDC reported that the FLiRT variants have been detected in wastewater sampling and have accounted for about 25% of cases in the United States from April 14 through April 27, with 1 in 4 Covid cases in the US attributed to these variants.

This rapid spread of the FLiRT variants has made them the dominant variant in the United States, surpassing the previously widespread JN.1 variant. The FLiRT variants, KP.2 and KP.1.1, belong to the Omicron family and are descendants of JN.1.11.1. These new variants are still being studied, but researchers have identified some changes in the spike protein of KP.2 compared to JN.1, which is crucial for the virus’s ability to infect cells and cause illness.

Symptoms of the COVID-19 FLiRT variants can vary from person to person, making it crucial for individuals to stay vigilant and monitor any potential signs of infection. While COVID-19 tests can detect the presence of the virus, they cannot pinpoint the specific variant responsible for the infection. Genomic sequencing is necessary to determine which variant caused the infection, according to experts.

To protect against the FLiRT variant of COVID-19, staying up to date on booster shots is recommended. Other preventive measures include opting for outdoor activities over indoor ones, avoiding high-risk settings, practicing frequent handwashing, maintaining physical distance from others, wearing masks in public places, staying home when sick, and seeking medical attention if experiencing COVID-19 symptoms.

Individuals who are more vulnerable or immunocompromised may benefit from treatments like the new monoclonal antibody Pemgarda, which was granted emergency use authorization by the FDA in March. This treatment serves as a preventive measure for those at higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19. As new variants continue to emerge, it is essential for the public to stay informed and take necessary precautions to protect themselves and their communities.