Three cases of a new sub-variant of the Omicron coronavirus have been registered in Ukraine. It was named FLiRT and was first detected in our country in July, reports Komersant ukrainskyi
reports with reference to the Telegram channel of the MINISTRY OF HEALTH.
According to Chief State Sanitary Doctor Igor Kuzin, two women and an elderly man fell ill. Regionally, FLiRT was detected in Kyiv and Ivano-Frankivsk region.
FLiRT coronavirus strain: what is known about it
It is derived from the Omicron variant. Due to specific mutations in the spike protein, the virus binds better to cells and avoids the immune response. This means that FLiRT is more likely to affect weakened immune systems, and even previously vaccinated people can get sick. However, the acquired immunity after vaccination reduces the risk of complications during the disease.
The WHO does not yet provide a specific assessment of the risk of FLiRT, but notes that it needs to be monitored at the country level. Existing research shows that current vaccines, including boosters, remain effective in protecting against severe COVID-19, although they cannot completely prevent infection with the new strain.