FLiRT: What You Must Know About New COVID-19 Variant

A new variant of Covid-19 has been identified. Dubbed FLiRT, the new strain has caused a surge of new cases in the US, UK and South Korea. In India, over 250 cases are being registered all over. Maharashtra has registered the highest number of cases at 91. Pune is the city recorded with the highest number of FliRt variant cases so far at 51, with Thane having 20. While the new strain is not thought to be deadly yet, citizens have been warned to beware. Here is everything you need to know about the new strain, its effects, and the preventative measures to be taken against it. 

What Is FLiRT?

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), FLiRT is a collection of core variations, consisting mainly of two strains, KP.1.1 and KP.2. They are sub-variants of Omicron. According to Japanese researchers, the transmissibility of the KP.2 variant is higher, although the lethality is comparatively lower. As of now, the KP.2 strain makes up 28% of COVID-19 cases in the US, while the KP.1.1 only make up about 7%.

However, those who had previously contracted COVID-19 are more susceptible to the FLiRT variant. 

What Are The Symptoms?

Similar to the earlier strains, those who contract the FLiRT variant would experience exhaustion, body aches, fever, sore throat, runny nose, cough, congestion, headaches, and in severe cases, shortness of breath. However, unlike earlier cases, the new variant does not seem to prompt a loss of smell or taste in patients. 

In addition to the above-mentioned symptoms, in rarer cases, a patient who has contracted the new variant might experience diarrhoea and nausea, which are typically associated with the norovirus. 

Prevention Measures To Be Taken 

Several steps could be taken to ensure that the FLiRT strain does not spread faster. Use masks when inside spaces where the virus might travel. Preferably use masks like the N95, which have been proven to be effective against the spread of airborne viruses. Refrain from frequently touching surfaces in public spaces. If possible, avoid large gatherings and choose to do social distancing. Wash your hands at regular intervals and ensure that there is good airflow in your home. If tested positive, do not panic but isolate yourself. 

Although the new strain has not yet become a cause for concern in terms of the severity with which it affects patients, it is still crucial to be aware and to stay safe.