Learn about the latest coronavirus mutation: A physician's perspective.
From April 28th to May 11th, KP.2 variants accounted for around 30% of new cases, a significant increase from the less than 16% in the previous two-week period. This raises several questions about the new variant, including its symptoms, vaccine effectiveness, home test reliability, isolation durations, and antiviral treatments for immunocompromised individuals.
To provide some insight, I spoke with Dr. Leana Wen, a wellness expert at CNN, who is also an emergency physician and clinical associate professor at the George Washington University. Prior to this role, she served as the Baltimore Health Commissioner.
Q: What should we know about the new variant, KP.2?
A: Since the initial Covid-19 outbreak, we've been tracking various variants. The first strain was overtaken by the Alpha variant, followed by Beta, Delta, and Omicron. KP.2 is a part of the Omicron family that has replaced JN.1 and similar subvariants, which were the most prevalent in the United States.
Three critical questions must be asked about new variants: Are they more contagious? Do they cause more severe disease? And do existing vaccines and treatments continue to work against them?
As with other coronavirus strains, KP.2 could be highly contagious, making it crucial to implement strict safety measures. However,. it does not seem to lead to more serious health issues. Thankfully, hospitalizations associated with Covid-19 are at record lows. Lastly, there's no indications that existing vaccines or treatments are ineffective against KP.2.
Q: What are the symptoms of infection with KP.2?
A: Covid-19 symptoms might not vary depending on the variant, as most patients experience a runny nose, sore throat, headache, fever, cough, and body aches. Severe symptoms include shortness of breath. If someone develops such symptoms, it's essential to seek medical attention promptly. However, KP.2 doesn't seem to exhibit any unique symptoms differentiating it from other infections.
Q: How reliable are home tests for KP.2?
A: Rapid antigen home tests are widely accessed and simple to use, although they're less precise than professional laboratory-based PCR (polymerase chain reaction) testing. There's no evidence suggesting that home tests are less effective at detecting KP.2 than any other strain.
If you're experiencing symptoms and potentially eligible for antiviral treatment, perform a home test. You could also consider getting PCR testing for added accuracy, especially if you're concerned about contracting Covid-19.
Q: Can existing vaccines tackle KP.2? What about the vaccine coming out in the fall?
A: The prevailing vaccines should still offer some form of protection against KP.2. In a recent update, the CDC advised administering a second shot of the first fall 2023 vaccine for those 65 and older to boost immunity levels.
The Government is forecasting the release of a novel form of the Covid-19 vaccine this fall, tailored to combat anticipated variants. If KP.2 is predicted to be one of the variants in circulation, the new vaccines should be even more effective at combatting it.
Q: How long should people isolate if they contract Covid-19?
A: Early this year, the CDC revised the recommendation, stipulating that people should stay at home till they've been fever-free for 24 hours, followed by their symptoms gradually improving. However, for the next five days, they should continue to take additional precautions such as wearing masks and limiting close contact.
Q: Should immunocompromised individuals start masking again if they catch Covid-19?
A: High-risk individuals, such as seniors, those with immunodeficiencies, and people suffering from significant medical conditions, should consider seeking antiviral treatments. Your healthcare provider can assist you in determining if you should take an antiviral treatment if you're diagnosed with Covid-19, as well as determining which one would be most suitable for you.
In conclusion, KP.2 doesn't seem to differ much from previous variants and won't likely require different safety measures. Although home tests are less effective than laboratory tests, they're still a useful tool for rapid, at-home detection. Vaccines remain effective against KP.2, and updated autumn vaccines are expected to be more accommodative. If you suspect you have Covid-19, isolate until fever-free, and ease your symptoms. Immunocompromised individuals should consider seeking antiviral treatments.
IMPORTANT: This text provides advice from medical professionals, but always consult a medical professional before making decisions related to your health. The information here serves as a supplement and not a replacement for medical guidance.
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In discussing the KP.2 variant of the coronavirus, Dr. Leana Wen, a wellness expert at CNN, highlighted that while home tests may still be effective in detecting this strain, they are less precise than professional laboratory-based PCR testing. Furthermore, Dr. Wen emphasized the importance of vaccines in combating KP.2, as the prevailing vaccines should still offer some form of protection against it, and updated autumn vaccines are expected to be more accommodative if KP.2 remains a circulating variant.
Source: edition.cnn.com
