2024-08-16 13:31:51
In this note we tell you more about the KP.2 or FLiRT variant of covid-19 in Guatemalaa strain that has been linked to the increase in cases in the United States and whose presence has been confirmed in the country.
KP.2 or FLiRT variant of covid-19 in Guatemala: symptoms and recommendations to prevent contagion
In recent months there has been an increase in the covid-19 cases in Guatemalaand at the end of July 2024, the presence of new variants of the virus in the country was confirmed, including the KP.2. This is part of the group known as FLiRTwhich groups together strains that have independently acquired a similar set of mutations to evade recognition by antibodies.
Why is it important to be alert to the KP.2 or FLiRT variant of Covid-19?
Las FLiRT variantsincluding KP.2, are monitored because of their ability to evade the body’s immune response. As Professor of Microbiology and Molecular Immunology Andy Pekosz notes in a CDC article: “The fact that these different [cepas] “Acquiring the same mutations tells virologists that this combination of mutations is helping the virus achieve these goals more efficiently.” In addition to KP.2, other FLiRT strains include JN.1.7 and others that begin with KP or JN.
In Guatemala, the Ministry of Health has identified several related subvariants, including the KP variant and its sublineages KP1.1, KP.1.1.3, KP.2, KP.2.2, KP.2.3, and KP.3.2.3.
Symptoms that may occur
Gabriela Asturias Ruiz, a doctor and founder of Alma Responde, has shared the most common symptoms that can occur on social media. Although these have changed little since the start of the pandemic, it is crucial to be aware of them:
- Fatigue
- Sore throat
- Nasal congestion
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Body aches
- Tos
As for loss of smell and taste, Asturias says these symptoms appear to be less common at present. Other less common symptoms include conjunctivitis and gastrointestinal problems, such as nausea and diarrhea. Although many current cases tend to be milder, due to pre-existing immunity from vaccination or previous infections, severe cases They still occur, especially in people with weakened immune systems, chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes, and in adults over age 65.
Recommendations to prevent contagion
If you have any of the symptoms mentioned above, it is essential to go to the nearest health center or hospital of your choice to have a check-up. covid-19 testGabriela Asturias also shared the following recommendations, some of them from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of the United States, to manage symptoms and prevent the spread of the virus:
- Seek immediate medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, confusion, or chest pain. These may be signs of serious complications.
- Stay home until you have been fever-free for at least 24 hours (without the use of medications) and until your symptoms have significantly improved.
- For five days after you feel better, continue to wear a mask, ventilate the spaces where you are, cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze, wash your hands frequently, and maintain social distancing.
- If symptoms do not improve or reappear after they have subsided, it could be a sign of complications. In that case, it is important to consult your doctor again.
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