After the world grappled with the challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic and its subsequent iterations, a new variant, EG.5.1, has emerged in the United Kingdom, causing health officials to be on high alert. Descending from the Omicron variant, EG.5.1, affectionately nicknamed ‘Eris’, has surged in prevalence, accounting for one in seven new COVID cases in the country.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported that the Eris variant now constitutes a significant 14.6% of cases, making it the second most prevalent variant in the UK. The surge in its spread has prompted health officers to closely monitor the situation, as the variant poses a potential threat to public health and further strains the healthcare system.
“Eris, officially designated as EG.5.1, first caught the attention of health authorities on July 3, 2023, due to an increasing number of reports internationally, particularly in Asia,” revealed the UKHSA.
Subsequently, on July 31, 2023, it was officially classified as a variant (V-23JUL-01) as more genomes were identified in UK data, and it continued to spread globally. This classification allows for more in-depth analysis and characterization of the variant to better understand its potential impact.
Given the rapid spread of the Eris variant, health authorities are urging the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to curb its transmission. Regular and thorough handwashing, social distancing, and mask-wearing continue to be vital measures to protect oneself and others from the virus.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has also been tracking the EG.5.1 variant since it first emerged just over two weeks ago. WHO Director-General Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus reiterated the importance of vaccination in offering some level of protection against the variant. Nonetheless, he cautioned against complacency and emphasised the need for continued vigilance in adhering to public health guidelines.
As the UK confronts the surge in cases driven by the Eris variant, the collaborative efforts of health authorities, experts, and the public will be crucial in containing its spread. Monitoring the situation closely and adhering to preventive measures will be instrumental in safeguarding public health and mitigating the potential impact on the healthcare system.