New FLiRT COVID Variants Detected in West Bengal

Following the identification of FLiRT variants in Maharashtra, West Bengal has now reported the presence of these new COVID-19 strains. Health officials have confirmed that 36 samples tested positive for the KP.2 variant, a member of the FLiRT group. KP.2 is progressively replacing the JN.1 variant and has been identified in approximately 50% of the sequenced samples. These samples were analyzed at the National Institute of Biomedical Genomics in Kalyani.

Reports indicate that a total of 286 COVID-19 cases across various states have been attributed to FLiRT variants. States such as Goa, Uttarakhand, Odisha, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have also detected these variants, with Maharashtra reporting the highest number of cases. According to data from Johns Hopkins, as of early May, the KP.2 variant accounts for about 28% of infections, surpassing JN.1 as the predominant strain.

Experts from Johns Hopkins have noted that an infection with the JN.1 variant should offer substantial protection against all FLiRT variants due to the minimal amino acid changes between them. This similarity allows antibodies to continue binding effectively, providing immunity. However, infections from variants predating JN.1 are less likely to confer the same level of protection.

Meanwhile, a fresh wave of COVID-19 is emerging in Singapore, where KP.1 and KP.2 variants constitute over two-thirds of the current cases. Regional news reports suggest that Singapore is experiencing more than 25,000 active COVID-19 cases daily, with a peak expected between mid to late June.

The identification and spread of these new FLiRT variants underscore the ongoing challenges in managing and mitigating the impact of COVID-19, highlighting the importance of continued vigilance and adaptation of public health strategies.