A new Covid variant, KP.2 ‘FLiRT’, has been detected through recent genomic sequencing. As a subvariant of Omicron, it has been linked to the recent surge in Covid cases across various states. The timing of this variant’s emergence, coinciding with the upcoming Lok Sabha elections, has sparked concern and alarm among the public.

Health officials have reported that the KP.2 variant is gradually supplanting the JN.1 variant, appearing in approximately 50% of sequenced samples. Although there has been a slight rise in Covid cases, officials emphasize that there is no cause for alarm, as this variant is currently only associated with mild symptoms.

West Bengal

Cases-36

In West Bengal, the KP.2 variant of the Covid virus has been detected in 36 individuals, raising concerns among experts due to its high transmission rate. This variant has the potential to trigger another surge similar to the one in December 2023 and January 2024. However, state officials have stated that the current numbers do not indicate a significant surge, with about 30 active cases across the state. Additionally, most hospitals in the city have not reported any positive in-patients, suggesting that the situation is presently under control.

Maharashtra (The most concerning)

Cases: 146

Maharashtra has identified 146 cases of the KP.2 Omicron subvariant, indicating a shift in the state’s COVID-19 case composition. Despite this increase, there has not been a corresponding rise in hospitalizations.

Other states with cases of the FLiRT KP.2 Covid variant include

Gujarat, cases: 23

Rajasthan, cases: 21

Odisha, cases: 17

Uttarakhand, cases: 16

Goa, cases: 12

FLiRT

The name “FLiRT” is derived from specific mutations in the virus’s spike protein. These mutations occur at positions 456 and 346, where an F changes to an L and an R changes to a T, respectively. When you combine “FL” and “RT,” you get “FLiRT.”