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Scientists warn that the new coronavirus (COVID-19) infection could spread again this summer.
This is because a variant of the mutant COVID-19 “Omicron” virus has been discovered to be spreading in the United States.
The new variant was named “FLiRT” due to the location of the mutation in the spike protein. What are the characteristics of this variant of the virus and what is the risk of causing a global pandemic?
Lawrence Young, a virologist and professor of molecular oncology at the University of Warwick in the United Kingdom, said in an interview with Newsweek on the 8th (local time): “FIiRT was first discovered in a sewer in the United States , but its origin is unknown.” He added, “(Currently) the FIiRT variant is present in the United States.” “Of course, it is spreading beyond our borders,” he said.
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One of the new FIiRT variants, called KP.2, accounts for 25% of new infections in the United States, Young said, citing data from the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). “There is growing concern that this variant could cause a surge in infections this summer,” he said.
Early evidence suggests that KP.2 may be more contagious than previous variants, but it is too early to say whether it is more dangerous.
Professor Young said: “We need to continue to track and monitor the spread of this variant, but this is difficult considering testing is now very rare.” most people) make them particularly vulnerable. “It is a cause for concern for the elderly and people with weak immune systems,” he stressed.
Professor Young said currently available vaccines do not fully respond to the new variants, but additional vaccinations could provide some level of protection. “There is a risk that FLiRT variants could cause small-scale outbreaks of infection in the coming months,” he predicted.
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Symptoms of the variant viral infection are similar to those of the existing Omicron strain.
Fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, malaise, muscle and body aches, headache, and loss of taste and smell, according to the CDC. Symptoms include sore throat, runny nose, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea.
To protect yourself from the FLiRT virus variant, you should follow general precautions.
“If you feel unwell, get tested, if you are positive, stay at home, avoid crowded and poorly ventilated spaces and wear a mask when near others, such as on public transport,” Professor Young recommended.
Journalist Park Hae-sik of Donga.com pistols@donga.com See other articles by this reporter
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