The U.K. is currently experiencing a rise in Covid-19 cases due to the spread of the EG.5.1 variant of the virus. This variant serves as an example of how the virus will continue to mutate, regardless of people choosing to ignore the threat it poses. On July 19, 2023, the World Health Organization (WHO) added EG.5# to its list of variants under monitoring (VUM). EG.5# acts as an umbrella term for any variant that begins with EG.5, such as EG.5 and EG.5.1. However, this particular variant is one that individuals should be cautious of as it can still cause Covid-19 and potentially long Covid.
Remembering names that sound like footnotes, Star Wars droids, or Elon Musk’s children can be challenging. To simplify, people on social media have started assigning their own names to these Omicron variants and subvariants, such as Arcturus and Kraken. In a recent Twitter post, Professor Ryan Gregory used the name “Eris” to describe the EG.5.1 variant. The EG.5# lineage overall can be seen as a combination of previous variants, with genetic features from the XBB.1.9.2 and S:F456L variants. While not an official name, “Eris” refers to the most massive known dwarf planet in the Solar System and seems fitting given the strife and discord caused by the politicization of Covid-19.
According to estimates from the U.K. Health Security Agency, the EG.5.1 variant accounted for approximately 14.55% of all Covid-19 cases in the country as of July 20. In the U.S., the EG.5 variants represented 17.3% of all Covid-19 cases during the two-week period ending August 5. This variant has become the most prevalent in the U.S., surpassing the XBB.1.16 variant. Alongside the increasing presence of the variant, Covid-19 hospitalizations in the U.S. have risen, and the virus has been detected in more wastewater samples nationwide.
Tracking Covid-19 cases has become more challenging since many people are now testing at home using less accurate tests or not testing at all. Consequently, the number of reported cases may not accurately reflect the true number of infections. While the risk of hospitalization and death from the EG.5.1 variant is lower than previous years, it is still higher than that of the flu. Additionally, the variant poses a risk of long Covid, a condition unique to SARS-CoV-2.
To protect yourself and others, it is important to continue taking appropriate Covid-19 precautions. Assume that those around you have not been careful unless you have personally monitored them. Stay updated on vaccinations, wash your hands frequently, and disinfect high touch surfaces. When in public, choose well-ventilated areas, and consider wearing high-quality masks like N95 respirators, especially in poorly ventilated spaces or when in close contact with others.
The emergence and spread of the EG.5.1 variant should not lead to panic but rather serve as a reminder that the virus continues to mutate and remain a concern. Stay informed about emerging variants and their characteristics and avoid taking unnecessary risks.
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Jessica Irvine is a tech enthusiast specializing in gadgets. From smart home devices to cutting-edge electronics, Jessica explores the world of consumer tech, offering readers comprehensive reviews, hands-on experiences, and expert insights into the coolest and most innovative gadgets on the market.
