The Eris Covid Variant: What We Know So Far
The Eris Covid variant, also known as EG.5, is being closely monitored by the World Health Organization (WHO) as it spreads across the world, including countries like China and the United States. Designated as a "variant of interest," the WHO is keeping a close eye on potential mutations that could increase its severity. However, based on current evidence, the WHO states that the Eris variant poses a low public health risk globally, similar to other circulating variants.
Properties and Global Prevalence
While the Eris variant has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity thus far, according to the WHO's risk evaluation. However, these characteristics may contribute to the variant becoming dominant in certain countries or even globally. As of August 7th, sequencing information submitted to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) revealed that the largest number of EG.5 cases were identified in China, followed by the U.S., South Korea, Japan, and Canada. The variant has also been detected in Australia, Singapore, the U.K., France, Portugal, and Spain.
EG.5 as the Dominant Strain in the U.S.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the EG.5 variant has become the dominant strain in the U.S., accounting for 17.3% of cases as of the week ending August 5th. This highlights the importance of monitoring and understanding the characteristics and impact of this variant.
New Vaccines Targeting XBB Variants
In response to the emergence of EG.5 and other related variants, pharmaceutical companies like Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax are preparing to release new Covid vaccines this fall. These vaccines are specifically targeted at XBB variants, which are descendants of the Omicron variant. Novavax claims that its vaccine induces functional immune responses to XBB subvariants, including XBB.1.5, XBB.1.16, and XBB.2.3.
Improved Protection with Reformulated Vaccines
EG.5 is a descendant strain that shares a spike amino acid profile with XBB.1.5. According to Justin Lessler, a professor in the Department of Epidemiology at UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health, EG.5 is more closely related to the XBB variants than previous vaccine strains. This suggests that the reformulated vaccines expected to be available in the fall will offer better protection against EG.5 compared to previous vaccines.
In conclusion, the Eris Covid variant, or EG.5, is a variant of interest that is being closely monitored by the WHO. While it has shown increased prevalence and certain properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity. The variant has become the dominant strain in the U.S., prompting the development of new vaccines targeting XBB variants. The expectation is that these reformulated vaccines will provide improved protection against EG.5. As vaccine distribution shifts to the private sector, new vaccines are anticipated to be available in the U.S. from late September, according to CDC Director Mandy Cohen.
Implications for New Businesses Amid the Eris Covid Variant
The emergence of the Eris Covid variant, EG.5, presents a new challenge for businesses, particularly startups. As the variant spreads globally, the potential for increased severity and prevalence could lead to further disruptions in the business landscape.
Adapting to Changing Circumstances
New businesses must be prepared to adapt to these changing circumstances. The dominance of the EG.5 variant in the U.S. underscores the importance of maintaining flexibility in business operations, particularly in sectors that are directly impacted by public health measures.
Opportunities in the Healthcare Sector
On a positive note, the development of new vaccines targeting XBB variants, descendants of the Omicron variant, presents opportunities for businesses in the healthcare sector. Companies like Moderna, Pfizer, and Novavax are leading the charge, and their efforts could pave the way for other businesses to contribute to the fight against Covid-19.
In conclusion, the emergence of the Eris Covid variant is a stark reminder of the ongoing challenges posed by the pandemic. However, it also underscores the opportunities for innovation and resilience in the face of adversity. As new businesses navigate this landscape, their success will hinge on their ability to adapt and seize opportunities amidst the challenges.
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