How does the current dominant SARS‑CoV‑2 strain differ from earlier descendants?
The new COVID-19 virus variant spreading now, “Eris,” is currently the predominant strain in the United States, according to data from the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Although it’s increasingly reported worldwide, health experts say it poses a low risk to public health, as there is no evidence it causes different or more severe symptoms than previous omicron offspring.
The Essentials
A subvariant of the omicron lineage, Eris, otherwise known as EG.5, was detected as early as February 2023.
As of Aug. 23, Eris has been detected in more than 50 countries and is responsible for an estimated 20.6 percent of all cases in the United States.
Meanwhile, FL.1.5.1 is now the second most prevalent strain, accounting for over 13 percent of cases.
On Aug. 9, the World Health Organization (WHO) designated Eris as a variant of interest (pdf), meaning it possesses genetic characteristics that could increase its transmissibility, virulence, and ability to evade vaccines.
The WHO had previously labeled Eris as a variant “under monitoring” after a surge in COVID-19 infections in early July.
The current variant of interest list also includes two other omicron cousins—XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.16.
If Eris is upgraded to a variant of concern, governments would need to increase preventative measures, such as mask mandates in hospitals, testing, or physical distancing.
There have already been growing concerns that Eris could trigger governments to revive some COVID-19 restrictions.
How Dangerous Is It Compared to Other Variants?
Eris is a descendent of omicron variant XBB.1.9.2.
Eris carries an additional amino acid mutation, known as F456L, in the spike protein. This mutation has been shown to escape immunity gained from previous variants and may help the new variant transmit quickly.
The CDC said there is no evidence Eris causes more severe disease than other omicron descendants, and it seems to cause similar symptoms.
Similar to those of earlier COVID-19 virus strains and that of the common cold, symptoms may include the following:
- Fatigue.
- Muscle pain.
- Chest pain.
- Headache.
- Sore throat.
- Runny nose.
- Congestion.
- Cough.
- Fever and chills.
- Nausea or vomiting.
- Diarrhea.
- Loss of taste or smell.
By Jessie Zhang
