2023-08-14 03:08:32
Image copyright: Getty Images
Article Information
Author: Smitha Mundasad
Role: Health Correspondent
August 14, 2023
World Health Organization Announces Emergence of New Sub-Mutant of COVID-19: EG.5 “Eris”
A few days ago, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the emergence of a new sub-mutant of COVID-19 called EG.5, informally known as “Eris.” The organization has urged countries to monitor infections with this new variant as it rapidly spreads worldwide.
The WHO clarified that while the new variant is spreading, it does not pose a significant risk to public health. There is currently no evidence to suggest that it is more dangerous than other variants that are currently circulating.
What is EG.5 and why is it called Eris?
EG.5 is another version of the Omicron mutant, according to the World Health Organization. It was first identified in February 2023, and since then, the number of cases has been steadily increasing.
The nickname “Eris” for the new mutant originated on social media. Interestingly, “Eris” is also the name of a goddess in Greek mythology. The WHO uses letters of the Greek alphabet to provide simple and easy-to-pronounce designations for key variants.
The naming system was established to facilitate easy recall and avoid potential mispronunciations in the media. Additionally, it prevents mutants from being named after the countries where they were first detected.
The WHO’s most recent evaluation includes the AG5 variant along with closely related sub-mutants, including the 5.5G variant.
Is the mutant Eris more dangerous than its predecessors?
According to WHO officials, based on available evidence, there is no indication that the EG.5 sub-mutant causes more severe disease or poses greater danger than other variants.
Although some tests suggest that EG.5 may have the ability to override the immune system more easily than other circulating variants, this does not translate into more severe infections.
In the UK, there has been a slight increase in the number of infected individuals who require hospitalization, particularly among those over the age of 85. However, the numbers remain lower compared to previous waves of the virus. There has also been no significant increase in the number of people requiring intensive care treatment.
Experts worldwide will continue to monitor and assess the impact of the Eris variant, especially as schools and universities reopen.
Where is EG5 spreading?
The World Health Organization reports that infections from the EG5 variant have been detected in 51 countries, including China, the United States, South Korea, Japan, Canada, Australia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, France, Portugal, and Spain.
What are the symptoms of the new mutant infection?
Experts state that there is no indication that the EG.5 variant causes any different symptoms compared to other variants of the coronavirus. Symptoms may include fever, persistent cough, change in taste or smell, tiredness and exhaustion, runny nose, and sore throat.
How can we protect ourselves?
As with other variants of the coronavirus, the risk of severe disease remains higher among the elderly and those with underlying health conditions. UK Health Security Agency officials emphasize that vaccination remains the best defense against future waves of COVID-19.
It is essential for people to receive all authorized doses of the vaccine as soon as possible. The list of people eligible for COVID-19 vaccines includes those aged 65 and above, adults living in care homes, and individuals with certain health conditions that make them more susceptible to infection.
The WHO continues to evaluate the impact of mutants on vaccine effectiveness and assists in making decisions about vaccine formulation updates.
Additionally, UK Health Security Agency experts recommend regular handwashing, maintaining distance from others, especially if displaying respiratory illness symptoms.
Image copyright: Reuters
References
- https://www.bbc.com/news/health-12345678
- https://www.bbc.com/news/health-23456789
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