The current proliferation of the FLiRT variant, specifically the KP.2 and KP.3 manifestations, has raised apprehensions regarding a potential surge in Covid-19 cases throughout the forthcoming summer months. Experts have highlighted the recent Euro 2024 football championship as a contributing factor to the escalating number of infections, drawing parallels to a similar trend observed during the 2021 tournament. The increased susceptibility posed by the FLiRT variant is compounded by the relatively low uptake of spring booster vaccines among vulnerable individuals, rendering them susceptible to the evolving strains.
In consideration of the mounting concerns, esteemed infectious disease expert Professor Mark Woolhouse has cautioned that the current spike in Covid-19 cases may be attributed to the large congregations of football enthusiasts across the nation. He posits that the widespread perception of a burgeoning summer wave mirrors the patterns seen during the previous Euros tournament, intimating a potential role in the dispersion of the virus. Hospitals have already reported a 25% uptick in Covid-19 cases, driven by the highly transmissible FLiRT variants, whilst only 4.1 million out of 7 million eligible individuals have availed themselves of the spring booster inoculation.
The evolving nature of the FLiRT variants has raised inquiries about the efficacy of current vaccines against these novel strains. Reports indicate that the spike protein, a primary target of Covid-19 vaccines, has undergone notable modifications, allowing the FLiRT variant to evade immune responses more effectively than its predecessors. Notably, individuals who were last vaccinated more than six months ago may experience waning immunity, rendering them more susceptible to symptomatic Covid-19 infections.
In addition to the challenges posed by the FLiRT variant, data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) suggests that the prevalence of FLiRT variants in the UK has risen to account for approximately 40% of new cases, whilst also contributing to a quarter of new cases in the US. However, the emergence of these variants has not been linked to any new specific symptoms or an increased risk of severe illness. Despite the growing number of Covid-19 hospitalisations, experts such as Professor Paul Hunter have underscored the diminishing severity of illness associated with the virus, suggesting that it may eventually become akin to a common cold for many individuals.
The FLiRT variants are offspring of the Omicron strain, characterised by distinct mutations on the spike protein. These mutations have bolstered the virus’s capacity to infect the nose and throat, potentially contributing to its swift dissemination. Consequently, exercising caution and adhering to preventive measures, such as remaining at home when symptomatic, is imperative in mitigating the risk of transmission.
As apprehensions pertaining to the FLiRT variants and their potential impact on the summer Covid-19 surge endure, experts have underscored the significance of sustained vigilance and adherence to public health guidelines. Despite the evolving landscape of the pandemic, ongoing vaccination endeavours and proactive measures remain pivotal in checking the propagation of the virus and mitigating its impact on vulnerable populations.