Are you feeling confused by all the news about different COVID-19 variants? You’re not alone. The pandemic has introduced a vocabulary filled with scientific terms that can be hard to keep track of.
One term you might have heard recently is “FLiRT.” Researchers are calling some new versions of the virus by this name, which stands for variants like KP.2 and KP.1.1.
The FLiRT variant is part of the Omicron family, known for spreading quickly. Right now, KP.2 is getting a lot of attention because it’s moving fast among people in the US and beyond.
This blog post will break down what FLiRT means for you — from what symptoms to watch out for, how well vaccines work against it, and ways to stay safe. Ready to learn more? Keep reading!
What Is the COVID “FLiRT” Variant?
The COVID “FLiRT” variant is a new strain of the virus that has been identified. It’s important to understand its definition, transmission, and potential impact on summer surges.
Definition
The COVID “FLiRT” variant belongs to the Omicron family, known for spreading quickly. This group includes key members like KP.2 and KP.1.1, which all come from a single ancestor named JN.1.
Scientists gave it the playful name “FLiRT” because of specific changes in its spike protein, reminiscent of how people might use subtle signs or body language to show interest without words during flirtations or courtship.
These mutations allow the virus to bind with human cells easily, causing infection more efficiently than earlier versions of the virus could. Just as non-verbal cues can be powerful in communication between people, these small changes in the virus make a big difference in how it spreads and affects us.
Next up is how this variant moves from person to person.
Transmission
COVID “FLiRT” spreads from person to person. Health experts watch how it moves through communities in the US. They see it passes much like other COVID strains, through coughs, sneezes, and close contacts.
This way of moving makes everyone more careful as they flirt with new ways to stay safe.
This variant could lead to more people getting sick during the summer. Officials keep an eye on this risk, making plans to reduce a big increase in cases. Being aware and ready can help slow down how fast FLiRT travels among us, keeping communities safer.
Potential for a Summer Surge
The FLiRT variants like KP.2 are spreading fast in the United States and might lead to more people getting sick this summer. Health officials are watching these viruses closely because they could cause a new wave of COVID-19 cases when everyone wants to relax and enjoy the warm weather.
Experts think this next wave might be milder than before, but they still urge everyone to stay cautious. The flirtations between relaxation and vigilance continue as we all try to find a balance.
It’s not about avoiding every single risk but making smart choices that help keep us safer.
Next up, let’s talk about what symptoms look like for those catching the FLiRT variant.
What Are the Symptoms of COVID “FLiRT”?
COVID “FLiRT” symptoms closely resemble those of other variants, such as fever and cough.
The new variant has the potential to evade vaccine immunity.
Similar to Other Variants
The symptoms of the COVID FLiRT variant resemble those of other variants, such as fever and cough. These variants share comparable characteristics, including the potential to evade vaccine immunity.
However, the FLiRT variants have unique mutations that set them apart from other strains of COVID-19.
Fever and Cough
The symptoms associated with the FLiRT variant are similar to those of other COVID-19 strains. These symptoms, as outlined by the CDC in March, include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath or difficulty breathing, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. Notably, this variant does not emphasize the occurrence of loss of taste and smell. It’s important for individuals to be aware of these symptoms and seek testing if they experience any of these indicators to rule out COVID-19 infection and take appropriate precautions.
Evading Vaccine Immunity
The FLiRT variants of COVID-19 have the ability to evade immunity from prior infections and vaccinations. These new variants may spread more easily and are better at infecting individuals who have immunity from vaccines or previous infections.
Early evidence suggests that these variants may have lost some ability to bind to their receptor while evading antibodies, making them a cause for concern in the ongoing fight against COVID-19.
Vaccines and Protection Against COVID “FLiRT”
Vaccines protect against COVID “FLiRT” and may require booster shots. For more details, read on!
Effectiveness Against New Variants
COVID-19 vaccines show effectiveness against new variants, including FLiRT, but their efficacy may be lower than against other strains. Recent COVID-19 infection can offer some protection from FLiRT variants.
Both vaccination and previous infection can provide a level of defense against severe illness from these new variants. Ongoing research aims to understand the complete extent of vaccine efficacy against FLiRT and similar strains.
Vaccines demonstrate effectiveness in combating new variants such as FLiRT, albeit with reduced potency compared to other strains. Those recently infected with COVID-19 may still possess some immunity to the FLiRT variant.
Vaccination and prior infection also offer a degree of protection against serious illness caused by these novel variants. Continuous research endeavors to reveal the full scope of vaccine efficiency specifically targeting FLiRT and related mutations.
Possibility of Booster Shots
As new variants emerge, the possibility of booster shots has been raised to enhance vaccine protection against evolving strains. Early research suggests that booster doses could strengthen immunity and address potential gaps in current vaccine effectiveness.
However, it is important to note that further data and analysis are needed before definitive decisions can be made regarding the necessity and timing of booster shots to combat emerging variants like FLiRT.
As the scientific community continues to navigate through the ever-changing landscape of COVID-19 variants, discussions around tailored booster strategies remain ongoing.
How to Protect Yourself from COVID “FLiRT”?
Protect yourself by following prevention measures, staying informed, and getting vaccinated. Read more for detailed information on COVID “FLiRT”.
Follow Prevention Measures
To safeguard against the FLiRT variant and other COVID strains, observe prevention measures such as wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and getting vaccinated. Adhere to public health guidelines by maintaining physical distance, avoiding crowded places, and ventilating indoor spaces.
Stay informed about vaccination eligibility criteria and seek prompt medical care if experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or its variants.
Stay Informed and Get Vaccinated
Stay informed about the FLiRT variants by regularly checking reliable sources for updates. Getting vaccinated is key to protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death caused by these variants.
Vaccination also aids in preventing a potential summer surge of FLiRT, providing an essential layer of defense. Stay proactive in seeking vaccination information from healthcare professionals and authoritative sources to make informed decisions.
Next: “Contact a Healthcare Provider if Experiencing Symptoms
Contact a Healthcare Provider if Experiencing Symptoms
If you have symptoms of the FLiRT variant, contact a healthcare provider immediately. Even if you’ve had COVID before, you could still be at risk and need medical attention. Be aware of respiratory issues or new symptoms associated with these variants and seek help promptly.
