Is the new COVID-19 variant, FLiRT, that has resulted in a spike in cases in the US, UK, South Korea, and is now in India a cause of concern?
So far, India has reported 250 cases. Most cases are being attributed to two variants — KP.2 and KP1.1 —- which are descendants of the Omicron JN.1. which spread globally over the winter last year. They can evade immunity from vaccines and previous infections.
According to Dr Rajesh Chawla, senior consultant, pulmonology and critical care, Indraprastha Apollo Hospital, New Delhi, the FLiRT Covid-19 variants, particularly KP.2, are considered more infectious than earlier Omicron variants. Listen in to him.
Does this variant cause severe disease?
FLiRT is a sub-variant of the Omicron lineage with new mutations. It is characterised by its ability to evade immunity from vaccines and previous infections. Its symptoms are similar to those of earlier variants, including fever, cough, fatigue and digestive issues with a heightened transmission rate. FLiRT demands stringent precautions.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that there are currently no indicators suggesting that KP.2 would cause more severe illness than other strains.
What are the signs and symptoms?
Like Omicron and Pirola, this strain mainly affects the upper respiratory tract. Those affected report fever or chills, cough, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, headache, muscle aches, difficulty breathing, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, brain fog, feeling less wakeful and aware, gastro-intestinal symptoms, including upset stomach, mild diarrhoea and vomitting.
Hospitalization rates for patients with these symptoms are not higher than usual.
Does it spread faster and is it more infectious?
Yes it does. Particularly KP.2 is considered more infectious than earlier Omicron variants. The heightened transmission rate of FLiRT variants demands stringent precautions. The FLiRT variants can spread easily through respiratory droplets, posing risks to all, especially the unvaccinated and those with compromised immunity.
What are preventive methods?
Stay up-to-date with Covid-19 vaccines, including boosters, to reduce the risk of severe illness. Use well-fitting respirators like N95s or KN95s in indoor public settings, especially in areas with high transmission rates. Increase air flow and filtration in indoor spaces to reduce the concentration of virus particles. Use rapid antigen tests if you have been part of a gathering or been exposed to someone with Covid-19. Isolate if positive and stay at home to avoid spread.
It is important to follow these prevention strategies besides hand hygiene and social distancing to provide the best protection against Covid-19 and its evolving variants. Staying informed about local transmission levels and following public health guidance can help reduce the impact of the FLiRT variant.
How prone are the elderly to infection?
Senior citizens are particularly prone to severe illness due to various factors such as age-related physiological changes, decreased immune function, and the presence of comorbidities. Research indicates that adults aged 60 and older, especially those with pre-existing medical conditions like heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, or cancer, are more likely to experience severe and potentially fatal Covid-19 infections compared to other age groups. The most vulnerable group continues to be people who are 65 and older, pregnant women or immunocompromised.
What about those who have received earlier versions of the vaccine?
While the FLiRT variant may lead to breakthrough infections and partial evasion of the immune system’s defences, older vaccines can continue to offer substantial protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and mortality. Studies suggest that although vaccines may not entirely prevent infection, they significantly reduce viral loads, leading to milder symptoms and lower transmission rates.
Senior citizens are particularly prone to severe illness due to various factors such as age-related physiological changes, decreased immune function, and the presence of comorbidities. (Express File Photo) 
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