Introduction
As the world continues to grapple with the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 (coronavirus disease-2019) pandemic, the virus responsible for the disease, known as SARS-CoV-2 proven its remarkable skill to evolve and adapt. Among the latest additions to the ever-expanding roster of variants is the Eris variant, a sub-variant of the widely known Omicron strain. The Eris variant made its debut in February 2023. Since its initial detection, it has rapidly spread across the globe, making appearances in no fewer than 51 countries, including China, the United States, the United Kingdom, India, and Australia. While this new variant has raised concerns, understanding its characteristics and implications is crucial in the ongoing fight against the pandemic.
What Is the Eris Variant and How Is It Different From Other Variants?
The Eris variant, also known as EG.5, belongs to the Beta lineage of the coronavirus, a category that shares genetic features with strains found in South Africa and Brazil. Distinct mutations set it apart from other variants, including alterations affecting the spike protein—the component of the virus responsible for binding to human cells and facilitating infection. Some of these mutations are similar to those found in other variants, such as the Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron variants, but some are unique to the Eris variant.
The most significant mutation within the Eris variant is labeled E484K. This mutation, also present in the Beta and Gamma variants, diminishes the efficacy of certain vaccines and antibodies. The World Health Organization (WHO) has recognized the significance of the Eris variant's emergence by classifying it as a "variant of interest." This designation serves as a call for heightened surveillance and investigation into the variant's behavior, potential implications, and its capacity to influence the course of the pandemic. The Eris variant is also known as B.1.1.529 by the WHO's naming system based on the genetic lineage of the virus.
How Contagious and Dangerous Is the Eris Variant?
Studies suggest that the Eris variant is approximately 50 percent more contagious than the original coronavirus strain and around 20 percent more transmissible than the Delta variant. This elevated contagiousness underscores the ease with which the variant spreads, particularly in situations where individuals are in close proximity or vaccination rates are low.
Furthermore, the Eris variant seems to be associated with greater severity than the original strain and potentially even the Delta variant. Research from Greece reveals that individuals infected with the Eris variant face a higher chance of hospitalization, intensive care admission, and mortality compared to those with other strains. The variant has also demonstrated a propensity for breakthrough infections in vaccinated individuals, though the majority of these cases have resulted in mild or asymptomatic outcomes.
How Effective Are the Vaccines Against the Eris Variant?
Current vaccines authorized for use in various countries maintain efficacy against the Eris variant, although their effectiveness may be diminished compared to other strains. For instance, a study conducted in South Africa, where the Beta variant predominates, found that the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine exhibited 75 percent efficacy against symptomatic infection, a decrease from its 95 percent efficacy against the original strain. Similarly, the AstraZeneca-Oxford vaccine showed 22 percent efficacy against symptomatic infection in the context of the Eris variant, in contrast to 70 percent against the original strain.
Despite these reduced percentages, both vaccines remain highly protective against severe illness and mortality attributed to any coronavirus strain, including the Eris variant. The study also suggests that administering booster doses of either vaccine could bolster the immune response, potentially enhancing protection against the Eris variant.
Other vaccines have not yet been tested against the Eris variant specifically, but they are expected to have similar or lower efficacy than Pfizer-BioNTech and AstraZeneca-Oxford. However, vaccination continues to be a pivotal tool in the fight against COVID-19 and its variants. While the Eris variant carries a mutation that may impact immunity, vaccines remain a powerful means of reducing the severity of illness and preventing hospitalization and death.
What Are the Recommendations for Preventing and Controlling the Eris Variant?
The emergence of the Eris variant is a reminder that the pandemic is not over and that people need to be alert and follow the public health measures to prevent the spread of the virus and its variants. To mitigate the spread of the Eris variant, it is essential to adhere to the same public health measures recommended for combatting other coronavirus strains:
Vaccination: Getting vaccinated is one of the best methods to prevent infection with the coronavirus and its variants. Prioritize receiving the vaccine and completing the recommended dosages.
Mask Usage: Wear well-fitting masks covering both the nose and mouth, especially in public spaces and indoors when not within the household.
Physical Distancing: Maintain a distance of at least six feet (two meters) from non-household members. Avoid close contact with people who are sick or have symptoms of COVID-19.
Avoid Crowded Settings: Steer clear of large gatherings and crowded environments, particularly indoors.
Hand Hygiene: Wash hands frequently with soap and water or use hand sanitizer. Avoid touching the eyes, nose, or mouth with unwashed hands.
Illness Management: Stay home if unwell, seek testing, and isolate if infected.
Travel Precautions: Quarantine after traveling to high-transmission areas.
Follow Local Guidelines: Follow the advice and guidance of the local health authorities regarding travel restrictions, quarantine requirements, isolation procedures, contact tracing, and other ways to stop the virus and its variants from spreading.
Conclusion
In the ever-evolving landscape of the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence of the Eris variant shows the virus's remarkable ability to adapt and change. While its appearance may spark concerns, a comprehensive understanding of its characteristics is key to effective response. Moving forward, adaptability and collaboration on a global scale remain pivotal. The Eris variant is another chapter in the ongoing battle, emphasizing the importance of staying informed, making informed decisions, and uniting in the efforts to overcome the challenges posed by COVID-19. By adhering to the public health guidelines and standing united, a path is laid towards a healthier future—a future where the pandemic can ultimately be consigned to the past.
