As we head into fall, a new COVID-19 subvariant, EG.5 (nicknamed Eris), is rapidly gaining dominance in the U.S. This variant, classified as a “variant of interest” by the World Health Organization (WHO), has been detected in numerous countries, including China, Japan, South Korea, and Canada.
What’s the big deal with Eris?
Eris, a descendant of previous Omicron variants like XBB.1.16 (Arcturus), XBB.2.3 (Acrux), and XBB.1.5 (Kraken), has outpaced its predecessors due to its increased transmissibility. It possesses specific mutations in its spike protein that enhance its ability to infect and spread.
While the overall number of COVID-19 cases remains relatively low compared to past surges, the rise of Eris is a cause for concern, especially for vulnerable populations like myeloma patients.
Key Points to Remember:
- Severity: While Eris is more transmissible, there’s no evidence suggesting it causes more severe illness.
- Vaccination: Updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to be available soon and should offer protection against Eris.
- Tip: Get your booster shot in the same arm as your previous doses for optimal immune response.
- Testing: If you experience COVID-19 symptoms, get tested promptly.
- Prevention:
- Wear a high-quality mask in crowded indoor settings.
- Stay up-to-date on vaccinations.
- Consider antiviral treatments like Paxlovid if prescribed by a healthcare provider.
By staying informed and taking necessary precautions, we can mitigate the impact of Eris and protect ourselves and our communities.
