Since the beginning of August, more than 26,000 people in Ukraine have contracted COVID-19. This was announced by the Deputy Head of the Ministry of Health, Chief State Sanitary Doctor of Ukraine Ihor Kuzin, Komersant ukrainskyi
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“In June, 2,300 Ukrainians fell ill with COVID-19, and in July, when the strain was registered, almost 11,500 did. In the first half of August, more than 26,000 cases have already been recorded,” Kuzin said.
He added that the emergence of the new FLiRT strain in Ukraine was expected, but the increase in the incidence was earlier than expected.
A characteristic feature of FLiRT is its rapid spread, which causes a wave-like incidence. At the same time, the disease is relatively mild in people who have received a full course of vaccination.
Kuzin added that Ukrainians over the age of 60 and those with concomitant non-communicable diseases are at the highest risk of severe disease.
At the same time, in Ukraine, the FLiRT strain is not characterised by an increased rate of hospitalisation, with the number of patients admitted to hospitals ranging from 2 to 2.5 thousand.
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. Available studies show that current vaccines, including boosters, remain effective in protecting against severe COVID-19, although they cannot completely prevent infection with the new strain.
Symptoms of the FLiRT strain
Symptoms of the new FLiRT strain are similar to other Omicron sub-variants. These include sore throat, cough, fatigue, nasal congestion, runny nose, headache, muscle aches, fever, and possible loss of taste and smell.
The World Health Organisation has not yet provided a specific assessment of the dangers of FLiRT, but notes that it needs to be monitored on a country-by-country basis. Studies show that registered vaccines remain effective in protecting against severe forms of Covid-19, although they cannot completely prevent infection with the new strain.
Dr Taras Zhyravetskyi told Kommersant Ukrainian who is at risk of contracting the new FLiRT strain and how to properly reduce the temperature.