The novel COVID-19 Omicron subvariant KP.2, which has surpassed the previously circulating JN.1 variant, is currently driving cases in several nations. According to reports, 91 cases have been detected in Maharashtra. Of the total, 51 cases are detected in Pune and 20 in Thane.
Additionally, Amravati and Aurangabad each had seven cases found. There were two cases in Solapur. Meanwhile, there was one case each detected in Ahmednagar, Nashik, Latur, and Sangli.
Mumbai has so far not detected a single case of this new variant.
KP.2, which is the most widespread variant in US, was discovered worldwide in January with several active cases. Globally, cases of two new variants of COVID-19—KP.2 and KP.1.1—are rising. This strain had taken over as the most common in the area by March and April.
Dr. Rajesh Karyakarte, the state's genome sequencing coordinator, stated that there hasn't been a commensurate rise in hospital admissions or critical cases. Through 2023, JN.1, the most common strain of COVID-19, gave rise to KP.2. It is most likely due to the KP.2 variant's propagation that the state experienced a little spike in cases in March, with an average of about 250 detections.
The FLiRT variations, which are Omicron offshoots and derive their name from mutations in the spike protein, include this variant in a broader group. Dr. Karyakarte said that though we do not anticipate any significant threats, KP.2 will eventually expand to every region of the earth. The doctor further added that the spread of this new variant is anticipated to be similar to JN.1.
The COVID-19 strain is resistant to vaccinations and past illnesses. The majority of symptoms of coronavirus like fever, coughing, exhaustion, and stomach issues, are still the same in this new variant. It's critical to remain vigilant against the emerging COVID-19 threat in light of declining immunity and the decline in social separation as the norm.
FLiRT mostly affects the upper respiratory system, causing symptoms such as headache, runny nose, sore throat, and loss of taste and smell. Patients exhibiting these symptoms do not have higher than average hospitalisation rates. However, because of recent viral changes, this variation is extremely contagious and can quickly go from an infected person to a healthy person.
As of May 6, the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG) had identified 232 KP.2 cases and 30 KP1.1 cases that were circulating across the nation.
Everyone is in danger from this variation since respiratory droplets can spread quickly, but those who have immune systems compromised or have not had the vaccination are most vulnerable. Due to small genetic changes, the FLiRT variation is different from earlier iterations. People need to be vigilant and ensure that targeted vaccinations, better testing, and continued commitment to preventive measures are carried out in order to stem the spread of the disease. Individuals who belong to particular age groups, such as children and the elderly, or who have several conditions should take extra precautions and adhere to COVID-friendly habits.
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