When some believed the nightmare was over, he returns and appears with a different face. This is the Covid-19 that re-emerged with some alarming cases and hospitalizations under a different variant name: “EG.5” or “Eris”.
According to estimates by the CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention), this variant causes 17% of new cases in the USA; This compares to the cases of XBB.1,16, which accounted for 16% of new infections until a few weeks ago.
And while the variant looks like new, it’s not. According to experts, it is a recombination of the XBB of the Omicron family; However, it has an additional mutation in its beak known as “position 45,” although what new implications this could have on human health is not yet known.
In addition to the fact that Covid-19 has the “EG.5” variant, this in turn has its own “EG.5.1” mutation, which is spreading rapidly in the USA.
What are the symptoms of “EG.5”?
The symptoms of the “EG.5” variant in infected patients do not differ from those already known and range from a cold to a sore throat, runny nose, constipation, cough, fever and breathing difficulties. Some people also experienced a loss of taste and smell, disorientation, dizziness and poor concentration.
Do I need a booster vaccination against “EG.5”?
Since June, the US health authorities and external drug manufacturers have been working on the development of new vaccines against the variants of Covid-19, including “EG.5”. The vaccinations for citizens are expected to take place from autumn.
How to protect yourself from “EG.5”?
According to experts, to protect against the “EG.5” variant, it is necessary to adopt some of the hygiene measures of the past, including social distancing, the use of N-95 masks; You’ll also stay up to date on available vaccines and booster shots. If you suspect you have Covid-19, it is important that you isolate yourself and seek medical advice immediately.
