A new family of Covid variants, nicknamed 'FLiRT', is raising concerns among health officials as we head into the summer months. Leading the pack is the KP.3 strain, a descendant of the highly transmissible Omicron variant, which is now gaining a foothold in the UK and the US.
What Are the FLiRT Variants?
The term 'FLiRT' is an acronym derived from the technical mutations in the virus's spike protein. This isn't a single variant but a group, including KP.2 and the currently dominant KP.3. Their mutations appear to give them an edge in evading existing immunity from past infections or vaccinations.
Are Symptoms Different with KP.3?
Early data suggests the symptoms of KP.3 are largely consistent with previous Omicron strains. However, some subtle shifts are being noted.
- Sore Throat: Often reported as an early and prominent symptom.
- Runny Nose: A common sign, sometimes mistaken for summer allergies.
- Cough: Typically present, but not always the primary symptom.
- Fatigue: A feeling of general tiredness and lack of energy.
- Headache: Frequently reported by those testing positive.
While less common, some individuals may still experience a loss of taste or smell, and the risk of severe illness remains highest for the clinically vulnerable.
Will Our Current Vaccines Work?
This is the central question. The spring booster campaign in the UK targeted the JN.1 variant, a close relative of the FLiRT group. While the new mutations might reduce the vaccine's effectiveness slightly, experts believe immunity from recent jabs should still provide strong protection against severe disease, hospitalisation, and death.
The medical community is already preparing for the next round of vaccine updates, with autumn boosters likely to be tailored to better match these circulating strains.
Is the UK Prepared for a Summer Wave?
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) maintains a robust system of surveillance, monitoring wastewater and case rates to track the virus's spread. While a significant surge is not currently predicted, the agency has emphasised the importance of staying vigilant.
Their advice remains clear: if you show symptoms, try to limit contact with others, especially the elderly or those with underlying health conditions. The era of mandatory lockdowns is over, but personal responsibility is now the cornerstone of managing Covid as an endemic virus.
The Bottom Line
The emergence of the KP.3 variant is a reminder that Covid-19 continues to evolve. While it may lead to an increase in cases this summer, the population's high level of immunity means we are in a much stronger position than in previous years. Staying informed and taking sensible precautions are the best defences as we learn to live with the virus long-term.
