A new Covid variant is spreading. Here are the symptoms.
A New Covid Variant, LB.1, Spreading in the US and Europe
A new Covid variant, named LB.1, is rapidly spreading in the United States and Europe, including Italy.
This is happening paradoxically during the summer, a period generally considered less favorable to the virus.
LB.1 is responsible for a 20% increase in infections in Italy in the last week.
Covid Situation in Italy
Although the Covid situation in Italy is currently under control, with 2,500 new cases reported from June 20-26 throughout the country compared to 2,000 the previous week, it is crucial to remain vigilant.
LB.1 is reportedly more infectious than previous variants, emphasizing the need for continued monitoring.
Special Variants: KP.3 and LB.1
Special attention is being given to two observed variants: KP.3, responsible for 33.1% of positive cases in the US, and LB.1, responsible for 17.5%.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is closely monitoring their spread, alongside European health authorities.
Symptoms of the LB.1 Variant
According to CDC spokesperson Dave Daigle, LB.1 “infects more easily due to the deletion of a single part of the spike protein.” Symptoms associated with the LB.1 variant include fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, body aches, headache, loss of taste or smell, sore throat, nasal congestion, runny nose, nausea, and diarrhea.
Current Covid Circulation and Concerns
While experts in Italy do not currently express alarm over the presence of the LB.1 variant, surveillance remains high.
The country continues to face periodic peaks in Covid cases, with a notable increase in deaths from the endemic virus during the last week compared to the previous one.
However, these numbers are significantly lower than those seen during the peak of the pandemic.
Scientists are now more concerned about the possible spread of avian influenza in North America.
Should there be a new pandemic, experts suggest this influenza strain may be the causative agent.
