UKHSA Raises Alarm Over Rapidly Spreading 'Eris' Variant of COVID-19
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has raised concerns about a rapidly spreading new variant of COVID-19 in the United Kingdom.
The variant, called �EG.5.1 or Eris', is a descendant of the highly transmissible Omicron variant and was first detected in the UK last month. It was initially flagged as a monitoring signal on July 3, 2023, due to increasing reports globally, especially in Asia.
‘Time to mask up: the highly transmissible Eris variant, a descendant of Omicron, responsible for 1 in 7 new COVID-19 cases. #COVID #ErisVariant #StaySafe’
Subsequently, it was classified as a variant (V-23JUL-01) due to the growing number of cases in the UK and internationally. This classification allows for a more detailed analysis and characterization of the variant, according to the UKHSA.
As of now, the Eris variant accounts for one in seven new COVID-19 cases in the UK, according to the UKHSA's latest report on August 3. The report indicates a rise in COVID-19 cases across the country, with 5.4% of 4,396 respiratory specimens identified as COVID-19, compared to 3.7% in the previous report.
COVID-Eris Symptoms to Look Out for
The most common symptoms associated with the Eris variant are:- Runny nose
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Sore throat
Dr. Mary Ramsay, the UKHSA's Head of Immunization, noted that COVID-19 cases continue to rise, and there has been a slight increase in hospital admissions, particularly among the elderly. However, overall admission rates remain low, and there is no significant increase in ICU admissions at present.
The situation is being closely monitored by officials as COVID-19 case rates continue to climb. The World Health Organization (WHO) Director-General, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, emphasized the importance of continued vigilance despite the protection offered by vaccines and prior infection ().
He advised high-risk individuals to wear masks in crowded places, get booster shots when recommended, ensure proper indoor ventilation, and urged governments not to dismantle the COVID-19 response systems they have established.
Reference:
- WHO Director-General's opening remarks at 148th session of the Executive Board - (https:www.who.int/director-general/speeches/detail/who-director-general-s-opening-remarks-at-148th-session-of-the-executive-board)
Source: Medindia