#covid 19 omicron variant south africa

[xtruss]

CDC Update After COVID Variant BA.2.86 Detected in U.S.

— August 24, 2023 | Newsweek | By Pandora Dewan, Science Reporter

A man holding up a COVID-19 test. The CDC has issued a warning about new SARS-CoV-2 variant BA.2.86. Daria Nipot/Getty

There have been numerous variants of the SARS-CoV-2 virus so far, including the highly transmissible Omicron strain that made headlines in 2022. However, according to the CDC, the new BA.2.86 has even more additional mutations compared with previously detected Omicron variants.

The large number of mutations raises concerns that the new variant may be more effective at evading our existing immunity to the virus, either through vaccinations or previous infections. However, it is too soon to say how it will impact global immunity, as samples are not yet broadly available for lab-based antibody testing.

"Nearly all the U.S. population has antibodies to SARS-CoV-2 from vaccination, previous infection, or both, and it is likely that these antibodies will continue to provide some protection against severe disease from this variant," the CDC said. "This is an area of ongoing scientific investigation."

Only nine cases of the new strain have been confirmed so far: three in Denmark; two in South Africa; one in Israel; two in the U.S.; and one in the U.K. However, the variant has also been detected in U.S. waste-water samples.

With such a small number of confirmed cases, it is too soon to know how transmissible the new variant is, although its detection across multiple continents does indicate some degree of transmissibility.

The severity of disease caused by BA.2.86 is also unclear. "At this time, locations where this variant have been detected have not experienced increases in transmission indicators (e.g., cases, emergency department visits) or hospitalizations out of proportion to those seen in neighboring locations," the CDC said. "However, it is early in the emergence of this variant and too soon to evaluate impacts based on these indicators."

The good news is that, from what we know so far, the existing detection tests and medications used to treat COVID-19 appear to be effective against this new variant.

There are a lot of unknowns surrounding BA.2.86, but to stay safe, the CDC recommends the following actions:

Stay home if you are sick.

Get tested for COVID-19 if you feel flu-like symptoms.

Improve ventilation.

Wash your hands.

Get vaccinations as recommended by your health provider.

— Pandora Dewan is a Newsweek Science Reporter based in London, UK. Her focus is reporting on science, health and technology. Pandora joined Newsweek in 2022 and previously worked as the Head of Content for the climate change education start-up, ClimateScience and as a Freelance writer for content creators such as Dr Karan Rajan and Thoughty2. She is a graduate in Biological Sciences from the University of Oxford.

[nationinsightfeed]

Omicron: What to Know About the New COVID Variant XBB1-16

Hey everyone,

I just came across an article on Nation Insight Feed that I think is really important to share. It's about the new COVID-19 variant called Omicron, also known as XBB1-16. According to the article, this variant is causing concern among health officials because it has a high number of mutations that could make it more transmissible and potentially more resistant to vaccines.

If you want to stay informed about this new variant, I highly recommend reading the article on Nation Insight Feed. It breaks down what we know so far about Omicron, including its origins, symptoms, and how it differs from previous variants. It also includes information on what steps you can take to protect yourself and others.

Here's the link to the article: https://www.nationinsightfeed.com/2023/05/omicron-what-to-know-about-the-new-covid-variant-xbb1-16-204598.html

Stay safe and stay informed!

[covid-safer-hotties]

Also preserved in our archive

By Tulio de Oliveira

Dr. Oliveira is the director of the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation in South Africa.

As a virus scientist in South Africa, I’ve been watching with dread as H5N1 bird flu spreads among animals in the United States. The pathogen poses a serious pandemic threat and has been detected in over 500 dairy herds in 15 states — which is probably an undercount. And yet, the U.S. response appears inadequate and slow, with too few genomic sequences of H5N1 cases in farm animals made publicly available for scientific review.

Failure to control H5N1 among American livestock could have global consequences, and this demands urgent attention. The United States has done little to reassure the world that it has the outbreak contained.

The recent infection of a pig at a farm in Oregon is especially concerning as pigs are known to be “mixing bowls” for influenza viruses. Pigs can be infected by both avian and human influenza viruses, creating a risk for the viruses to exchange genetic material and potentially speed up adaptation for human transmission. The H1N1 pandemic in 2009 was created and spread initially by pigs. Beyond the risks to its own citizens (there are over 45 cases of people in the United States getting the virus in 2024), the United States should remember that the country where a pandemic emerges can be accused of not doing enough to control it. We still hear how China did not do enough to stop the Covid-19 pandemic. None of us would want a new pandemic labeled the “American virus,” as this could be very damaging for the United States’ reputation and economy.

The United States should learn from how the global south responds to infectious diseases. Those of us working in the region have a good track record of responding to epidemics and emerging pandemics, and can help the United States identify new virus strains and offer insights into how to control H5N1. This knowledge has not come easily or without suffering; it has developed from decades of dealing with deadly diseases. We’ve learned one simple lesson: You need to learn your enemy as quickly as possible in order to fight it.

We did this during Covid. In November 2021, my colleagues and I, and others in Botswana, discovered the Omicron variant. We quickly and publicly warned the world that it could rapidly spread. This kind of transparency is not always easy because it can come at large economic cost. For example, after we shared our Omicron discovery, countries around the world imposed travel bans on South Africa ahead of December holidays, spurring backlash. Our team received death threats, and we needed security for our labs. One estimate suggests South Africa lost $63 million in canceled bookings from December to March.

But it was the right thing to do. That’s why it’s so frustrating that genomic sequences of H5N1 animal cases in the United States are not quickly made available. Sharing genomes of virus samples immediately is crucial for understanding the threat and giving the world time to prepare, including developing antivirals and vaccines. Rwanda, for example, was recently bold enough to go public with the detection of the deadly Marburg virus. Health responders there worked around the clock, and within about a month, they seem to have controlled the outbreak. Other countries in Africa have similarly and openly shared data about the spread of Mpox.

I’ve worked for decades with American scientists, and this summer I toured many of the country’s top scientific research institutions and was a speaker at one of its largest annual virology meetings. I know how flabbergasted many American scientists are about the country’s slow response to the H5N1. One highly respected American virologist, David O’Connor, told me that “it seems that the United States is addicted to gambling with H5N1. But if you gamble long enough, the virus may hit a jackpot.” A jackpot for the virus would fuel a global pandemic.

It is time to respond forcefully to this threat. The world’s scientists are here to help, in the same way as the United States has helped us so many times. Countries need to continue to support one another; we need an international scientific and medical force that can work together to respond to new epidemics and potential pandemics, including diagnosing and genetically analyzing every single sample of H5N1.

I understand that it’s not easy to persuade businesses, such as the meat and dairy industries, to allow the testing of all of their animals and staffs, and to make that data public quickly. But I also know that in the end, doing so protects lives, lessens economic damage and creates a safer world.

The world cannot afford to gamble with this virus, letting it spread in animals and hoping it never sparks a serious outbreak — or crossing our fingers that its effects won’t be serious in people. Time will tell. I hope we are not watching the start of a new pandemic unfold, with both the American and the international communities burying our heads in the sand rather than confronting potential danger.

[nuadox]

FAQ on COVID-19 subvariant XBB.1.5

- By Sameer Elsayed , Western University , The Conversation -

Despite intensive public health efforts to grind the COVID-19 pandemic to a halt, the recent emergence of the highly transmissible, extensively drug-resistant and profoundly immune system-evading XBB.1.5 SARS-CoV-2 subvariant is putting the global community on edge.

What is XBB.1.5?

In the naming convention for SARS-CoV-2 lineages, the prefix “X” denotes a pedigree that arose through genetic recombination between two or more subvariants.

The XBB lineage emerged following natural co-infection of a human host with two Omicron subvariants, namely BA.2.10.1 and BA.2.75. It was first identified by public health authorities in India during summer 2022. XBB.1.5 is a direct descendent, or more accurately, the “fifth grandchild” of the original XBB subvariant.

Genetic lineage of COVID-19 subvariant XBB.1.5. (Sameer Elsayed), Author provided

How does XBB.1.5 differ from Omicron?

XBB.1.5 is one of many Omicron subvariants of concern that have appeared on the global pandemic scene since the onset of the first Omicron wave in November 2021. In contrast to other descendants of the original Omicron variant (known as B.1.1.529), XBB.1.5 is a mosaic subvariant that traces its roots to two Omicron subvariant lineages.

XBB.1.5 is arguably the most genetically rich and most transmissible SARS-CoV-2 Omicron subvariant yet.

Where is XBB.1.5 prevalent?

According to the World Health Organization, XBB.1.5 is circulating in at least 38 countries, with the highest prevalence in the United States, where it accounts for approximately 43 per cent of COVID-19 cases nationwide. Within the U.S., there is wide geographic variation in the proportion of cases caused by XBB.1.5, ranging from seven per cent in the Midwest to over 70 per cent in New England.

XBB.1.5 has also been officially reported by governmental agencies in Australia, Canada, the European Union, Japan, Kuwait, Russia, Singapore, South Africa and the United Kingdom. Real-time surveillance data reveals that XBB.1.5 is rapidly spreading across the globe and will likely become the next dominant subvariant.

XBB.1.5 has also been detected in municipal wastewater systems in the United States, Europe and other places.

How likely is XBB.1.5 to cause serious illness?

There is limited data about the ability of XBB.1.5 to cause serious illness. According to the World Health Organization, XBB.1.5 does not have any specific mutations that make it any more dangerous than its ancestral subvariants.

Nonetheless, XBB.1.5 is perceived as being equally capable of causing serious illness in elderly and immunocompromised persons compared to previous Omicron subvariants of concern.

Are current mRNA vaccines effective against XBB.1.5?

XBB.1.5 and XBB.1 are the Omicron subvariants with the greatest immune-evasive properties. Therefore, one of the most contentious issues surrounding XBB.1.5 relates to the degree of protection afforded by currently available mRNA vaccines, including the latest bivalent booster formulations.

Researchers from the University of Texas determined that first-generation and bivalent mRNA booster vaccines containing BA.5 result in lacklustre neutralizing antibody responses against XBB.1.5. A report (yet to be peer reviewed) from investigators at the Cleveland Clinic found that bivalent vaccines demonstrate only modest (30 per cent) effectiveness in otherwise healthy non-elderly people when the variants in the vaccine match those circulating in the community.

Furthermore, some experts believe the administration of bivalent boosters for the prevention of COVID-19 illness in otherwise healthy young individuals is not medically justified nor cost-effective.

In contrast, public health experts from Atlanta, Ga. and Stanford, Calif. reported that although the neutralizing antibody activity of bivalent booster vaccines against XBB.1.5 is 12 to 26 times less than antibody activity against the wild-type (original) SARS-CoV-2 virus, bivalent vaccines still perform better than monovalent vaccines against XBB.1.5.

However, investigators from Columbia University in New York found that neutralizing antibody levels following bivalent boosting were up to 155–fold lower against XBB.1.5 compared to levels against the wild-type virus following monovalent boosting.

This suggests that neither monovalent nor bivalent booster vaccines can be relied upon to provide adequate protection against XBB.1.5.

How can you protect yourself against XBB.1.5?

The rapid evolution of SARS-CoV-2 continues to pose a challenge for the management of COVID-19 illness using available preventive and therapeutic agents. Of note, all currently available monoclonal antibodies targeting the spike protein of SARS-CoV-2 are deemed to be ineffective against XBB.1.5.

Antiviral medicines such as remdesivir and Paxlovid may be considered for the treatment of eligible infected patients at high risk of progressing to severe disease.

Standard infection control precautions including indoor masking, social distancing and frequent handwashing are effective measures that can be employed for personal and population protection against XBB.1.5 and other subvariants of concern.

Although bivalent boosters may be considered for elderly, immunocompromised and other risk-averse individuals, their effectiveness in preventing COVID-19 illness due to XBB.1.5 remains uncertain.

Why is XBB.1.5 nicknamed ‘Kraken’?

Some scientists have coined unofficially-recognized nicknames for XBB.1.5 and other SARS-CoV-2 subvariants of concern, arguing that they are easier to remember than generic alphanumeric designations.

The ‘Kraken’ label for XBB.1.5 is currently in vogue on social media sites and news outlets, and the nicknames ‘Gryphon’ and ‘Hippogryph’ have been used to denote the ancestral subvariants XBB and XBB.1, respectively. Kraken refers to a mythological Scandinavian sea monster or giant squid, Gryphon (or Griffin) refers to a legendary creature that is a hybrid of an eagle and a lion, while Hippogryph (or Hippogriff) is a fictitious animal hybrid of a Gryphon and a horse.

Notwithstanding their potential utility as memory aids, the use of nicknames or acronyms in formal scientific discussions should be avoided.

Sameer Elsayed, Professor of Medicine, Pathology & Laboratory Medicine, and Epidemiology & Biostatistics, Western University

This article is republished from The Conversation under a Creative Commons license. Read the original article.

--

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Study: 30% of COVID patients develop ‘long COVID’

[screenshots123]

📆 14 Feb 2024 📰 As U.S. COVID-19 Winter Wave Recedes, CDC Tracks New BA.2.87.1 Variant 🗞️ U.S. News

Meanwhile, as is always the case with COVID-19, there’s the possibility a new variant could change everything.

Globally and in the U.S., JN.1 dominates. It’s an omicron subvariant that is closely related to BA.2.86, or “pirola.”

JN.1 was responsible for more than 9 in 10 new COVID-19 infections in the U.S. in recent weeks, according to CDC estimates. The agency said JN.1 contributed to the burden of COVID-19 this winter, but added that its spread “does not appear to pose additional risks to public health beyond that of other recent variants.”

As of last week, the CDC was tracking and analyzing a new variant that hadn’t yet appeared in the U.S.: BA.2.87.1. The strain had only been found in South Africa so far.

“The fact that only nine cases have been detected in one country since the first specimen was collected in September suggests it does not appear to be highly transmissible – at least so far,” the CDC said in a post about the strain.

So why is the agency keeping an eye on this variant? Because it has highly mutated, with more than 30 changes in the spike protein of the coronavirus compared with XBB.1.5, which is the virus variant targeted by the latest vaccines.

[kataria07]

Deciphering the Complexities of COVID-19 Variants

Introduction:

The global COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to humanity. As the virus continues its relentless spread, it constantly evolves through mutations, giving rise to an array of variants. In this in-depth journey, we will embark on a thorough exploration of the intricate realm of COVID-19 variants to equip you with the indispensable knowledge you need.

1. Unraveling the Intricate World of COVID-19 Variants:

COVID-19 variants are akin to unique adaptations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, each sculpted by genetic mutations. These genetic transformations can lead to substantial changes in the virus's characteristics, influencing its transmissibility, disease severity, and resistance to immunity. Think of these variants as distinct "iterations" of the same virus, each bearing its genetic signature.

2. An In-Depth Exploration of Prominent COVID-19 Variants:

Alpha (B.1.1.7): First detected in the United Kingdom, the Alpha variant gained worldwide attention due to its heightened transmissibility. However, it didn't necessarily translate into more severe illness or increased fatality rates.

Beta (B.1.351): Originating in South Africa, the Beta variant raised concerns about its potential resistance to immunity, including vaccine-induced immunity. Researchers maintained a vigilant watch over its behavior.

Delta (B.1.617.2): The Delta variant, initially identified in India, has played a pivotal role in the pandemic. Its extraordinary transmissibility led to surges in cases worldwide, resulting in increased hospitalizations and posing challenges to containment efforts.

Omicron (B.1.1.529):  Omicron made global headlines due to its numerous mutations in the spike protein, the primary target of most COVID-19 vaccines. Scientists are actively researching its transmissibility, severity, and vaccine efficacy, given its potential risk.

3. Understanding the Genesis of Variants:

Why Do They Emerge? Variants are an inherent facet of a virus's life cycle. As the virus replicates and spreads, genetic changes occur. While many of these changes are random, some provide advantages to the virus. For instance, mutations that enhance transmissibility help the virus spread more efficiently from person to person, ultimately increasing its prevalence.

4. Assessing the Impact of Variants on Vaccines:

A major concern regarding COVID-19 variants revolves around their impact on vaccine effectiveness. Vaccine manufacturers and researchers vigilantly monitor these variants. While some variants may marginally reduce vaccine effectiveness, it is crucial to understand that vaccines continue to offer robust protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Even when a variant affects vaccine efficacy, vaccines remain potent in mitigating the virus's impact.

In response to the emergence of variants, booster shots have been recommended to enhance immunity, especially against newer and more challenging variants like Delta and Omicron. These booster doses bolster the body's immune response, providing additional layers of protection.

5. The Pivotal Role of Public Health Measures:

Irrespective of the variants that emerge, public health measures remain crucial for controlling the spread of COVID-19. These measures encompass:

Mask-Wearing: Consistently don masks in crowded or indoor settings, especially in regions with high transmission rates.

Social Distancing: Maintain physical distance from others, particularly during close social interactions.

 Hand Hygiene: Practice regular handwashing with soap and water or use hand sanitizers.

Vaccination: If eligible, get vaccinated and adhere to guidance on booster shots when provided.

Testing and Isolation: Undergo testing if you display symptoms or have been exposed to a COVID-19-positive individual. Prompt isolation upon receiving a positive result is essential to curb further transmission.

These measures not only safeguard individual health but also act as barriers against the emergence of new variants.

Summary:

COVID-19 variants are an intrinsic part of the virus's evolution. Scientists diligently explore their characteristics and potential impact on public health. In this ever-evolving landscape, vaccination and adherence to public health measures remain our most unwavering allies in the battle against the pandemic. Staying informed and heeding guidelines from reputable health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are essential actions to safeguard ourselves and our communities.

[blogs0728]

Unmasking the Complexity of COVID-19 Variants

Introduction:

The global COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to humanity. As the virus continues its relentless spread, it constantly evolves through mutations, giving rise to an array of variants. In this in-depth journey, we will embark on a thorough exploration of the intricate realm of COVID-19 variants to equip you with the indispensable knowledge you need.

1. Unraveling the Intricate World of COVID-19 Variants:

COVID-19 variants are akin to unique adaptations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, each sculpted by genetic mutations. These genetic transformations can lead to substantial changes in the virus's characteristics, influencing its transmissibility, disease severity, and resistance to immunity. Think of these variants as distinct "iterations" of the same virus, each bearing its genetic signature.

2. An In-Depth Exploration of Prominent COVID-19 Variants:

Alpha (B.1.1.7): First detected in the United Kingdom, the Alpha variant gained worldwide attention due to its heightened transmissibility. However, it didn't necessarily translate into more severe illness or increased fatality rates.

Beta (B.1.351): Originating in South Africa, the Beta variant raised concerns about its potential resistance to immunity, including vaccine-induced immunity. Researchers maintained a vigilant watch over its behavior.

Delta (B.1.617.2): The Delta variant, initially identified in India, has played a pivotal role in the pandemic. Its extraordinary transmissibility led to surges in cases worldwide, resulting in increased hospitalizations and posing challenges to containment efforts.

Omicron (B.1.1.529):  Omicron made global headlines due to its numerous mutations in the spike protein, the primary target of most COVID-19 vaccines. Scientists are actively researching its transmissibility, severity, and vaccine efficacy, given its potential risk.

3. Understanding the Genesis of Variants:

Why Do They Emerge? Variants are an inherent facet of a virus's life cycle. As the virus replicates and spreads, genetic changes occur. While many of these changes are random, some provide advantages to the virus. For instance, mutations that enhance transmissibility help the virus spread more efficiently from person to person, ultimately increasing its prevalence.

4. Assessing the Impact of Variants on Vaccines:

A major concern regarding COVID-19 variants revolves around their impact on vaccine effectiveness. Vaccine manufacturers and researchers vigilantly monitor these variants. While some variants may marginally reduce vaccine effectiveness, it is crucial to understand that vaccines continue to offer robust protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Even when a variant affects vaccine efficacy, vaccines remain potent in mitigating the virus's impact.

In response to the emergence of variants, booster shots have been recommended to enhance immunity, especially against newer and more challenging variants like Delta and Omicron. These booster doses bolster the body's immune response, providing additional layers of protection.

5. The Pivotal Role of Public Health Measures:

Irrespective of the variants that emerge, public health measures remain crucial for controlling the spread of COVID-19. These measures encompass:

Mask-Wearing: Consistently don masks in crowded or indoor settings, especially in regions with high transmission rates.

Social Distancing: Maintain physical distance from others, particularly during close social interactions.

 Hand Hygiene: Practice regular handwashing with soap and water or use hand sanitizers.

Vaccination: If eligible, get vaccinated and adhere to guidance on booster shots when provided.

Testing and Isolation: Undergo testing if you display symptoms or have been exposed to a COVID-19-positive individual. Prompt isolation upon receiving a positive result is essential to curb further transmission.

These measures not only safeguard individual health but also act as barriers against the emergence of new variants.

Summary:

COVID-19 variants are an intrinsic part of the virus's evolution. Scientists diligently explore their characteristics and potential impact on public health. In this ever-evolving landscape, vaccination and adherence to public health measures remain our most unwavering allies in the battle against the pandemic. Staying informed and heeding guidelines from reputable health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are essential actions to safeguard ourselves and our communities.

[shahid12]

Demystifying the Complexities of COVID-19 Mutations: A Comprehensive Exploration

Introduction:

The global COVID-19 pandemic has posed an unprecedented challenge to humanity. As the virus continues its relentless spread, it constantly evolves through mutations, giving rise to an array of variants. In this in-depth journey, we will embark on a thorough exploration of the intricate realm of COVID-19 variants to equip you with the indispensable knowledge you need.

1. Unraveling the Intricate World of COVID-19 Variants:

COVID-19 variants are akin to unique adaptations of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, each sculpted by genetic mutations. These genetic transformations can lead to substantial changes in the virus's characteristics, influencing its transmissibility, disease severity, and resistance to immunity. Think of these variants as distinct "iterations" of the same virus, each bearing its genetic signature.

2. An In-Depth Exploration of Prominent COVID-19 Variants:

Alpha (B.1.1.7): First detected in the United Kingdom, the Alpha variant gained worldwide attention due to its heightened transmissibility. However, it didn't necessarily translate into more severe illness or increased fatality rates.

Beta (B.1.351): Originating in South Africa, the Beta variant raised concerns about its potential resistance to immunity, including vaccine-induced immunity. Researchers maintained a vigilant watch over its behavior.

Delta (B.1.617.2): The Delta variant, initially identified in India, has played a pivotal role in the pandemic. Its extraordinary transmissibility led to surges in cases worldwide, resulting in increased hospitalizations and posing challenges to containment efforts.

Omicron (B.1.1.529):  Omicron made global headlines due to its numerous mutations in the spike protein, the primary target of most COVID-19 vaccines. Scientists are actively researching its transmissibility, severity, and vaccine efficacy, given its potential risk.

3. Understanding the Genesis of Variants:

Why Do They Emerge? Variants are an inherent facet of a virus's life cycle. As the virus replicates and spreads, genetic changes occur. While many of these changes are random, some provide advantages to the virus. For instance, mutations that enhance transmissibility help the virus spread more efficiently from person to person, ultimately increasing its prevalence.

4. Assessing the Impact of Variants on Vaccines:

A major concern regarding COVID-19 variants revolves around their impact on vaccine effectiveness. Vaccine manufacturers and researchers vigilantly monitor these variants. While some variants may marginally reduce vaccine effectiveness, it is crucial to understand that vaccines continue to offer robust protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. Even when a variant affects vaccine efficacy, vaccines remain potent in mitigating the virus's impact.

In response to the emergence of variants, booster shots have been recommended to enhance immunity, especially against newer and more challenging variants like Delta and Omicron. These booster doses bolster the body's immune response, providing additional layers of protection.

5. The Pivotal Role of Public Health Measures:

Irrespective of the variants that emerge, public health measures remain crucial for controlling the spread of COVID-19. These measures encompass:

Mask-Wearing: Consistently don masks in crowded or indoor settings, especially in regions with high transmission rates.

Social Distancing: Maintain physical distance from others, particularly during close social interactions.

 Hand Hygiene: Practice regular handwashing with soap and water or use hand sanitizers.

Vaccination: If eligible, get vaccinated and adhere to guidance on booster shots when provided.

Testing and Isolation: Undergo testing if you display symptoms or have been exposed to a COVID-19-positive individual. Prompt isolation upon receiving a positive result is essential to curb further transmission.

These measures not only safeguard individual health but also act as barriers against the emergence of new variants.

Summary:

COVID-19 variants are an intrinsic part of the virus's evolution. Scientists diligently explore their characteristics and potential impact on public health. In this ever-evolving landscape, vaccination and adherence to public health measures remain our most unwavering allies in the battle against the pandemic. Staying informed and heeding guidelines from reputable health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), are essential actions to safeguard ourselves and our communities.

[crimechannels]

By • Olalekan Fagbade COVID-19 Again; NCDC clears air on presence of new subvariants in Nigeria The Nigeria Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (NCDC) is closely monitoring the emergence of new subvariants of the Omicron variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. The Director-General, NCDC, Dr Ifedayo Adetifa, gave the assurance in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) on Saturday in Abuja. These subvariants, named EG.5 and BA.2.86, have been reported in several countries. While the EG.5 variant has been classified as a “variant of interest” with a low global risk, the BA.2.86 variant is currently under monitoring due to its substantial genetic differences from other circulating variants. NAN reports that an update from the U.S. Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) shows that at least two cases subvariant BA.2.86 have been identified in the U.S. This prompted the centre to issue a risk-assessment summary on Aug. 23, explaining what is known about it so far.   Adetifa said that the NCDC, along with its partners, was actively conducting surveillance and implementing enhanced testing measures to gather more information about these emerging variants. “It is important for the public to stay informed with verified information and continue practising preventive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones,” he said. He noted that the subvariants, EG.5 and BA.2.86, had been reported in countries such as China, U.S., Republic of Korea, Japan, Canada, Australia, Singapore, United Kingdom, France, Portugal and Spain. “The EG.5 variant, which is a descendant of XBB.1.9.2, has been identified in 51 countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified EG.5 as a Variant of Interest (VoI). “However, a risk assessment conducted by the WHO has determined that this new variant poses a low risk at the global level. “It is important to note that EG.5 has not been associated with any change in symptoms or clinical manifestations, nor has it resulted in an increase in the severity of illness, hospitalizations, or death rates. “The symptoms caused by EG.5 are similar to those seen with other COVID-19 variants, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle aches, headache and sore throat,” he said. According to him, on the other hand, the BA.2.86 variant, a descendant of BA.2, has been reported in a handful of countries, including the United Kingdom, Israel, Denmark, South Africa and U.S. The director-general said that WHO had classified BA.2.86 as a Variant under Monitoring (VuM) due to its multiple genetic differences from its ancestor – BA.2, and other currently circulating XBB-derived SARS-CoV-2 variants. “As there are only a few reported cases of BA.2.86, there is not enough information to make conclusive assessments of its virulence, transmission and severity. “However, it is expected to be similar to other Omicron descendants currently circulating. “It is worth noting that while the ancestor BA.2 has been previously found in Nigeria, no BA.2.86 variant has been identified in the country,” he said. He said that the NCDC’s COVID-19 Technical Working Group (COVID-19 TWG) was actively monitoring COVID-19 epidemiology at the local, regional, continental and global levels, including the emergence of new variants. “Influenza sentinel surveillance sites continue to provide information on COVID-19 prevalence in patients with influenza-like illness and severe acute respiratory illness. “So far, there has been no observed increase in the trend of COVID-19 in this patient group,” he said. He said that the NCDC was also carrying out genomics surveillance, in spite of the low testing levels, and encourages testing locations in states to send positive samples for sequencing. “Additionally, the NCDC and its partners are working on implementing an enhanced COVID-19 testing exercise in four states to obtain more detailed information about circulating variants in the coun

try. “The distribution of COVID-19 rapid diagnostic kits is also underway to improve bi-directional COVID-19 testing,” he said. He urged members of the public to act responsibly and share only verified information to avoid unnecessary panic. “It is emphasized that COVID-19 is here to stay and mainly affects those at high risk, such as the elderly and individuals with underlying chronic illnesses. “The actions required to protect oneself and others remain the same, including getting tested for any febrile illness and respiratory symptoms, getting vaccinated against COVID-19, practising good hand hygiene, and wearing masks in high-risk situations,” he said. He said that the NCDC would continue to monitor the situation globally, especially in countries where the new variants had been confirmed. He added that the centre would provide Nigerians with scientifically-sound and evidence-based information on any changes in SARS-CoV-2 epidemiology and genomics that may pose a threat to public health.(NAN) www.nannews.ng AIR/ISHO/IGO #COVID19 #Nigeria #Subvariant

[captainmdhridoyhossain-blog]

[ad_1] The U.S. goes to limit go back and forth from South Africa and several other different international locations because of a troubling new COVID-19 variant. The White Space introduced the brand new laws, which come simply weeks after the rustic reopened to global vacationers with new access laws, on Friday.The brand new laws, which take impact Monday, observe to vacationers from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique, and Malawi. U.S. voters and lawful everlasting citizens are excluded.The coverage was once carried out out of an "abundance of warning'' in gentle of the brand new variant and in session with Anthony Fauci, the president's Leader Clinical Officer, and the Facilities for Illness Keep an eye on and Prevention.►What's omicron:What to understand concerning the new COVID-19 variant in South Africa►COVID updates:New COVID variant dubbed 'omicron' through WHO, labeled as 'variant of outrage'The Global Well being Group on Friday declared the variant, omicron, a variant of outrage. The primary case was once reported to WHO from South Africa on Wednesday.A number of Ecu international locations and the UK have already taken measures to limit go back and forth to and from Africa because the new variant got here to gentle.What US airways serve Africa?United and Delta are the one U.S. airways providing provider between the U.S. and Africa.United Airways started providing flights between the USA and Africa, flights that handiest started previous this yr.The Chicago-based airline provides nonstop flights between Newark and Johannesburg and Washington, D.C., to Accra 3 times every week. It's also because of resume seasonal provider to Cape The town in December."We are tracking the placement however do not have any adjustments to announce right now,'' United spokeswoman Nicole Carriere mentioned by means of electronic mail.Delta provides provider between Atlanta and Johannesburg and mentioned it, too, is tracking the placement. [ad_2] #go back and forth #restrictions #coming #African #international locations #due #omicron

[covid19pandemicphilippines]

A sudden alteration that turned the world upside down

by Eeya Baguio

It started of an unknown virus that exploded like a bomb out of nowhere. No expectancy, no signals, nothing at all. Affecting people one by one, all across the world. The COVID-19 virus.

As the days gone by, turned into weeks, months, and unexpectedly, years. It has evolved into a more alarming one. Thousands of deaths being reported, lockdowns every now and then, necessities being sold out to every stores, it was a sudden alteration that turned the world upside down. Thus, given its evolution, different variants were created, in which some are very much alarming.

Alpha variant (B.1.1.7): first identified in the UK in late 2020, it spreads more easily than earlier variants and may be associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and death.

Beta variant (B.1.351): first identified in South Africa in late 2020, it may be associated with reduced effectiveness of some vaccines.

Gamma variant (P.1): first identified in Brazil in late 2020, it is similar to the Beta variant and may also be associated with reduced vaccine effectiveness.

Delta variant (B.1.617.2): first identified in India in late 2020, it is more transmissible than earlier variants and has been associated with increased hospitalizations and deaths.

Omicron variant (B.1.1.529): first identified in South Africa in late 2021, it has a large number of mutations and is still being studied, but early evidence suggests that it may be more transmissible than other variants.

It's worth noting that viruses constantly mutate, and new variants of COVID-19 are likely to emerge in the future.

References:

https://www.who.int/en/activities/tracking-SARS-CoV-2-variants/

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/variant-info.html

https://www.nih.gov/news-events/nih-research-matters/variant-covid-19-spreading-faster-india

https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/coronavirus/coronavirus-mutations-strains-and-variants

[newswireml]

Scientists race to detect new pathogens before they can spark another pandemic : NPR#Scientists #race #detect #pathogens #spark #pandemic #NPR

Disease researchers from South Africa were the first to identify the omicron variant of the COVID-19 virus. Scientists there are racing to detect new pathogens before they can spark another pandemic. Copyright © 2023 NPR. All rights reserved. Visit our website terms of use and permissions pages at http://www.npr.org for further information. NPR transcripts are created on a rush deadline by an…

[covid-safer-hotties]

New XEC Covid variant spreading 'more easily' as cases rise - Published Sept 23, 2024

By Howard Lloyd

The strain has quickly spread around the world - including Europe - and is now causing concern in the US

A new variant of Covid-19 is on the rise, according to scientists. The XEC strain started in Europe but has now spread across the globe, with research suggesting it is transmitted more easily than previous types.

Researchers say it is a recombinant variant - meaning it is created from two previously existing strains which someone may have caught at the same time. In XEC's case, it is a combination of KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. It is a genetic offshoot of omicron, a highly transmissible variant that first emerged in South Africa in 2021.

This means it shares many of the same characteristics as other omicron subvariants, such as spreading easily and causing less severe disease than the earliest SARS-CoV-2 strains.

It was first detected in Germany at the end of August and now 82 cases have been found in the UK. Doctors in the US are also concerned, with one saying it was 'just getting started'.

It has now been detected in 27 countries across Europe, Asia and North America. Despite only being found three weeks ago, 13% of cases in Germany are now the XEC variant.

Richard Orton, Bioinformatics Research Associate at the University of Glasgow, told The Conversation: "XEC appears to have a growth advantage and is spreading faster than other circulating variants, suggesting it will become the dominant variant globally in the next few months."

He added: "This new variant will probably be similar to other COVID variants in terms of the disease caused, given its similar genetic information. So symptoms such as a high temperature, sore throat with a cough, headaches and body aches along with tiredness are to be expected."

Hospitalisations with Covid in the UK are expected to increase in the weeks ahead as we move into colder weather. A new vaccination project will being next month in a bid to fight the spread of the virus.

[alwaysswitchedon]

#CoronavirusPandemic: Most transmissible COVID-19 Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 hits South Africa

Coronavirus Pandemic: Most transmissible COVID-19 Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 hits South Africa. 😷 #PreparedNotScared #IWearAMaskBecause #CoronavirusOutbreak #CoronavirusPandemic #FightCOVID19 #StopTheSpread #StopCOVID19 #CancelCovid #Covid19 #COVID19NewNormal #Ventilate #LetFreshAirIn #COVIDisAirborne #WearAMask #SocialDistancing #WashYourHands #BeWiseSanitise #CovidVaccine #VacciNation #VaccinesSaveLives #VaccinesWork #GetVaccinated #VaccinatedAndHappy #VaxAndRelax #JabsB4Jol #JabsBeforeJol #immunisation #immunization #StaySafe

  The WHO raised concern about the new COVID-19 Omicron subvariant XBB.1.5 and declared it the most transmissible variant so far. But there is no need to worry if we follow precautions and stay safe by vaccinating, masking up, ventilating and isolating when experiencing symptoms.   On 6th of January 2023 the Covid-19 variant XBB.1.5 was detected in SA by Stellenbosch University, Network for…

[ank01-fan]

2022 Year In health: New Ebola and cholera outbreaks, mpox emergency, COVID-19 ‘not over’

A global population weary of the chaos caused by COVID-19 pandemic had to contend with a new, highly transmissible variant at the beginning of the year: Omicron.

Omicron and on

This latest version swept across Europe, leading to record weekly case numbers, although the number of deaths was relatively low, compared to previous outbreaks. And, although many countries began to relax lockdown and other restrictions on movements, the World Health Organization (WHO) pointed out that the disease is still a threat: by August, one million COVID-19 related deaths had been recorded. At the agency’s World Health Assembly in May – the first to be held in-person since a pre-pandemic 2019 – the WHO chief, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, urged countries not to lower their guard. “Is COVID-19 over? No, it’s most certainly not over. I know that’s not the message you want to hear, and it’s definitely not the message I want to deliver”, he told delegates.

UNICEF/Laxmi Prasad Ngakhusi A health worker delivers COVID-19 vaccines, donated through the COVAX Facility, to a health post in Nepal

A billion COVAX jabs delivered

Since early on in the pandemic, the WHO consistently called out the unequal distribution of vaccines and treatments for COVID-19, urging for more to be done for those living in developing countries: the UN-backed COVAX facility, a multilateral initiative to provide equal vaccine access to all, reached a major milestone in January, when the billionth jab was recorded in Rwanda. COVAX has undoubtedly saved many lives but, by March, Tedros was warning that  a third of the world’s population had still not received a single dose of COVID-19 vaccine, including a shocking 83 per cent of all Africans. This lack of equity was still a problem in November, when a WHO report confirmed that lower-income countries consistently struggle to access essential inoculations in demand by wealthier countries. “This is not acceptable to me, and it should not be acceptable to anyone”, said Tedros. “If the world’s rich are enjoying the benefits of high vaccine coverage, why shouldn’t the world’s poor? Are some lives worth more than others?”

AIDS eradication targets off-track

In 2021, there were 1.5 million new HIV infections and 650,000 AIDS-related deaths. UN Member States had demonstrated their commitment to ending the virus by the end of the decade, with the signing of a political declaration at the General Assembly in 2021, but it was clear this year that swifter action would be needed, if that goal is to be met. A July report showed a slowing of the rate at which HIV infections decline, to 3.6 per cent between 2020 and 2021, the smallest annual decline in new HIV infections since 2016. The pandemic has thrived as  COVID-19, and other global crises put a strain on resources, to the detriment of HIV programmes. On World AIDS Day in November, UN chief António Guterres declared that the 2030 goal is off-track, and noted the ongoing discrimination, stigma, and exclusion, many people living with HIV still face. This year saw encouraging developments in drug treatments: in March, the first injection to offer long-lasting protection against HIV was rolled out in South Africa and Brazil, as an alternative to daily medication. WHO recommended the use of the drug, Cabotegravir, which only needs to be injected six times a year, for people at substantial risk of HIV infection. In July, the UN reached a deal with the company that developed the drug, to allow low-cost, generic formulations to be produced in less-developed countries, a move that could potentially save many lives.

Ebola treatment centre in Beni, Democratic Republic of the Congo.

DRC and Uganda hit by Ebola

In April, health workers were mobilized to fight an outbreak of the deadly Ebola virus in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the sixth recorded outbreak in just four years. “With effective vaccines at hand and the experience of DRC health workers in Ebola response, we can quickly change the course of this outbreak for the better,” said Dr Matshidiso Moeti, the WHO’s Regional Director for Africa. An outbreak was also reported in neighbouring Uganda in August, following six suspicious deaths in the central Mubende district, a region with gold mines, which attract workers from many parts of Uganda, and other countries. The following month, the WHO scaled up response efforts, delivering medical supplies, providing logistics, and deploying staff to support the Ugandan authorities in halting the spread of the virus. By mid-November, 141 cases and 55 deaths had been confirmed, and the UN health agency reassured that it was working closely with the Ugandan authorities to speed up the development of new vaccines.

Cholera returns to Haiti, threatens Middle East

As the security situation in Haiti continued to degrade, cholera made an unwelcome return to the troubled country in October, linked to a degraded sanitation system and lawlessness, which made it harder for sufferers to seek treatment. The situation was exacerbated by gangs blockading Haiti’s main fuel terminal. That led to a deadly fuel shortage that forced many hospitals and health centres to close and affected water distribution. The UN children’s agency, UNICEF, declared in November that youngsters account for around 40 per cent of cases in Haiti, and appealed for $27.5 million, to save lives from the disease.

A young child is treated for cholera at a hospital in Port-au-Prince, Haiti.Haiti was far from the only country to be affected by the bacterial disease: an outbreak in the Syrian city of Aleppo in September, was attributed to people drinking unsafe water from the Euphrates River and using contaminated water to irrigate crops, resulting in food contamination. An outbreak in Lebanon, the first in thirty years, spread through the country in November. WHO declared that the situation was fragile, with Lebanon facing a prolonged crisis, and limited access to clean water and proper sanitation across the country. WHO data released in December, pointed to cases of infection in around 30 countries, whereas in the previous five years, fewer than 20 countries reported infections. “The situation is quite unprecedented, for not only we are seeing more outbreaks, but these outbreaks are larger and more deadly than the ones we have seen in past years,” said Dr. Barboza, WHO Team Lead for Cholera and Epidemic Diarrhoeal Diseases. Mr. Barboza said that, whilst conflict and mass displacement continue to be major factors in allowing cholera to spread, the climate crisis is playing a direct role in the growing number of simultaneously occurring outbreaks.

Monkeypox lesions often appear on the palms of hands

Mpox: a new health emergency

For many people, monkeypox was a previously unknown word to learn in 2022, although the disease has been associated with illness in humans since 1970. Monkeypox, renamed mpox by WHO, occurs primarily in tropical rainforest areas of Central and West Africa, but outbreaks began to emerge in other parts of the world this year. In May, WHO was at pains to allay concerns that the outbreak would resemble the COVID-19 pandemic, noting that most of those infected recover, without treatment, in a number of weeks. However, with global cases growing, WHO declared in July that mpox qualified as a “global health emergency of international concern”. Tedros stressed that, because the virus was concentrated among men who have sex with men, especially those with multiple sexual partners, the outbreak could be stopped, “with the right strategies in the right groups”. A senior WHO official observed, in August, that the international community only became interested in mpox once infections grew in the developed world. Assistant Director-General for Emergencies, Ibrahima Soce, said in August that “we have been working on mpox in Africa for several years, but nobody was interested”. In late November WHO announced that they would henceforth refer to Monkeypox as mpox, citing reports of racist and stigmatizing language surrounding the name of the disease. By December, more than 80,000 cases were reported in 110 countries, with 55 deaths.

Malaria vaccine at a health facitlity in Kenya

Major malaria breakthrough

Hopes of an end to malaria were raised in August, when UNICEF announced that the pharmaceutical giant GSK had been awarded a $170 million contract to produce the first world’s first malaria vaccine. Malaria remains one of the biggest killers of children under five: in 2020, nearly half a million boys and girls died from the disease in Africa alone, a rate of one death every minute. “This is a giant step forward in our collective efforts to save children’s lives and reduce the burden of malaria as part of wider malaria prevention and control programmes”, said Etleva Kadilli, Director of UNICEF’s Supply Division. Plans are already underway to boost production, including through technology transfer, UNICEF added, “so that every child at risk will one day have the opportunity to be immunized against this killer disease”. #Year #health #Ebola #cholera #outbreaks #mpox #emergency #COVID19 Read the full article

[xiaowang67391544]

We were all wrong, Omicron actually first appeared in the US

      NEW YORK - A study of wastewater in New York City shows that the omicron variant of COVID-19 was probably in the city before scientists in South Africa discovered the omicron variant existed and was more widely spread than originally indicated by clinical testing.

      The New York City Department of Environmental Protection has been tracking variants in wastewater by sequencing weekly samples collected from 14 sewersheds. It found 12 omicron-associated mutations in a sample collected on November 21, according to a publication by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

      That means the variant could have been in New York City before South African scientists first announced on November 25, 2021 that they had discovered the variant.

      The first omicron case in the U.S. was reported on Dec. 1.  The CDC says that by December 4, the date the wastewater data were reported, an omicron case had been identified in a New York City resident.

      Samples collected on November 28 from this same sewershed and from another sewershed contained Omicron-associated mutations, as reported to the health department on December 17.

      Scientists says that variant tracking data from wastewater cannot confirm the presence of a specific variant because the methods used cannot determine whether all variant-defining mutations are present on a single genome.

      They do say that conditions that increase confidence in the results include the detection of multiple variant-associated mutations.

      Limitations of variant tracking in wastewater include detections inconsistent with the current epidemiology, low-quality sequence data, sporadic detections, detection of a single variant-associated mutation, and conflicting trends in concentration or abundance data for mutations associated with the same variant.