New COVID-19 Variant HV.1 Takes Over in the United States
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to evolve as a new variant, HV.1, emerges as the dominant strain in the United States. Andrea Garcia, JD, MPH, Vice President of Science, Medicine, and Public Health at the American Medical Association, has warned that the new omicron subvariant is highly infectious and accounts for nearly one-third of cases nationwide.
SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19, has been constantly mutating, leading to the emergence of new variants. According to the Center for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), HV.1 quickly became the most prevalent strain in October, overtaking other variants in a matter of weeks.
Garcia urged the public to keep an eye on the HV.1 variant due to its high transmissibility. Since omicron took over in December 2021, all dominant variants have descended from it, indicating that the virus is likely to continue evolving in this manner.
In light of the new variant, it is crucial for individuals to be aware of the symptoms of COVID-19, which include coughing, shortness of breath, fever, and loss of taste and/or smell. The CDC also recommends taking precautions such as getting vaccinated, staying home if sick, improving ventilation, and practicing good hand hygiene.
As the pandemic continues to unfold, it is essential for individuals to stay informed and take necessary measures to protect themselves and others from COVID-19.
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