I Type of manuscript- Review Article Title: Investigating the FLiRT
Variants of COVID-19: Is it An Emerging Concern?
Abstract
The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic caused by the severe acute respiratory
syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) has led to multiple waves of
infections globally. As the virus continues to evolve, new variants have
emerged, some with concerning changes in transmissibility and virulence.
Among these variants, the ” FLiRT Variants” have recently garnered
attention due to their potential to alter the dynamics of transmission
and disease severity. According to the Infectious Disease Society of
America, the nickname ‘FLiRT’ is based on the technical names for their
mutations. The FLiRT variants, particularly KP.2, seem to exhibit
heightened transmissibility in comparison to earlier Omicron
sub-variants. Additionally, they demonstrate a capacity to evade
immunity conferred by prior infection and vaccines, although the full
extent of this evasion is still being investigated In this article, we
review the characteristics of the FLiRT Variant, including its genetic
mutations, epidemiological features, potential impact on public health
measures, and implications for vaccine efficacy. We also discuss
strategies for surveillance, prevention, and mitigation efforts to
control the spread of this variant and mitigate its impact on global
health.