The Eris variant
The Eris variant has a significant mutation of amino acid F456L in the spike protein, which distinguishes it from genetic subvariants. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States, the Eris variant now accounts for 20.6 percent of cases reported in recent weeks, making it one of the fastest emerging variants. Due to its rapid spread, the EG.5 variant is being closely monitored and has been added to the Variants of Interest (VOI) list for this period.
From a clinical point of view, the variant shows remarkable similarity to other subvariants of Omicron. Although the symptoms are very similar to those of influenza, such as runny nose, fever, dry cough, difficulty breathing, nasal congestion, sore throat, headache, hoarse voice, and muscle and joint pain, it is essential to perform an antigenic or molecular swab to rule out the presence of the disease.
Do vaccines protect us?
In response to the increase in COVID-19 cases, especially those associated with the new variant, an anticovid vaccination campaign will be launched in Italy using a new mRNA and protein-based vaccine formulation known as the monovalent XBB 1.5 formulation.
The European Medicines Agency (EMA) and the Italian Medicines Agency (AIFA) have given the green light for a new Covid vaccine initiative to coincide with the start of the influenza vaccination campaign scheduled for October 2023. The new vaccines will be formulated with advanced mRNA and protein technology to provide effective protection against emerging variants of the virus.
The primary goal is to launch this campaign in early October to reduce mortality, hospitalizations and severe cases of Covid-19. As the new vaccines become available, they will be used in full compliance with the Summary of Product Characteristics (SPC) and regulatory guidelines.
Who are the new vaccines for?
According to the guidelines of the Italy's Ministry of Health, the Covid vaccination campaign is indicated for the following categories
- Persons aged 60 years and older.
- Health care workers.
- Workers and guests of residential facilities for the elderly.
- Pregnant women.
- Children (12 years and older) with high frailty motivated by concomitant / pre-existing diseases.
What to do if you test positive?
The Eris variant, as previously announced, presents symptoms very similar to those of seasonal influenza. Therefore, it is advisable to undergo an antigenic or molecular swab to confirm the influenza nature and exclude the presence of COVID-19. It is recommended to rely on professionals in the field, such as pharmacists or health care providers, who are experienced in performing the test correctly to avoid false negative results.
According to the latest Ministry regulations in Italy, it is no longer necessary to undergo isolation in case of positivity. However, as a precautionary measure, it is advisable to isolate in the presence of obvious symptoms and to avoid contact with other people and crowded places in order to prevent the spread of the virus.
If isolation is not possible, it is recommended that a face mask be worn to protect vulnerable individuals such as the elderly, children or frail persons from possible COVID-19 infection.
While awaiting new guidelines from health authorities, the isolation of the Eris variant has so far allowed the scientific community to focus on the development and subsequent licensure of new vaccines against Covid-19 and its emerging variants. This precaution is essential to ensure an effective and timely response to the challenges posed by new strains of the virus.
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