What Are the New COVID-19 Variants in 2024? Symptoms & Treatments
New variants of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19, will continue to emerge through mutations. The new COVID-19 variants attach to cells more rapidly, making them more transmissible. The symptoms of these new variants are similar to those of previous Omicron variants. Currently, there are over 26 main strains of COVID-19. Since its outbreak in 2019, COVID-19 has significantly impacted the world. Although vaccines have been developed and distributed globally, the virus continues to mutate. In 2024, the world is still grappling with this pandemic. This is because viruses and pathogens constantly adapt and evolve.
In the following, we will become familiar with the new coronavirus variant. By using the Daroug-e Kamyab (Rare Medicine) website, you can easily obtain medications for treating the latest COVID-19 variants.
To do so, simply register on the platform, and under the section for obtaining rare medicines, enter the name of the medication you need or upload your prescription in the designated field. A complete list of pharmacies that have your requested medicine in stock will be sent to you as quickly as possible.
The Latest COVID-19 Variants
The newest COVID-19 variants include Eris, Fornax, and Arcturus. Both Eris and Fornax carry a mutation that enables them to spread more rapidly than other variants. However, currently, there is no evidence to suggest that these variants cause more severe symptoms compared to those seen in previous variants. Arcturus also poses an increased risk of transmissibility and potential immune evasion.
Another highly mutated variant on the rise is BA.2.86, commonly known as Pirola. Although there have not yet been many cases caused by this variant, due to the high number of mutations in key regions of the virus, scientists and the World Health Organization are closely monitoring it. The CDC has evaluated this variant and concluded that existing diagnostic tests for detecting the coronavirus and the medications used to treat COVID-19 appear to remain effective against it.
It is believed that Pirola may cause infections in individuals who have been vaccinated or previously infected with COVID-19 because of its extensive mutations. Information regarding the severity and transmissibility of this variant is still under investigation.
Additionally, a new and prevalent variant named XEC is currently spreading. Experts suggest that this variant could soon become the dominant SARS-CoV-2 strain, coinciding with the period when COVID-19 infections and hospitalizations typically peak. XEC belongs to the Omicron lineage of SARS-CoV-2. It was first detected in Germany in June 2024 and quickly spread throughout other parts of Europe.
The Good News
So far, there is no evidence indicating that the XEC variant causes symptoms that are different or more severe than those of recent variants. (However, COVID-19 infection remains a concern for certain groups, including older adults and individuals with compromised immune systems.)
Prevention of XEC COVID-19 Infection
According to Dr. Roberts on the Yale Medicine website, it is advisable to receive the updated vaccine. He also recommends following standard precautionary measures to prevent COVID-19 infection, including avoiding close contact with sick individuals, wearing masks in crowded indoor spaces, and adhering to other guidelines issued by the CDC.
Symptoms of the New XEC Variant
The symptoms are believed to be similar to those of a common cold or influenza, including:
High body temperature
Pain
Fatigue
Cough or sore throat
Treatment for XEC COVID-19
Dr. Roberts advises that if your COVID test is positive, antiviral medications such as Paxlovid are recommended. Depending on the risk of severe COVID illness and other factors, Paxlovid is available by prescription for individuals aged 12 and older. It is most effective when taken within the first few days of symptom onset.
As with other COVID-19 variants, treatment should be prescribed by a physician. To learn more about available COVID-19 treatments, you can click on the provided link.
Symptoms of the Latest COVID-19 Variants in 2024
There is still no evidence suggesting that individuals infected with new variants such as EG.5 or FL.1.5.1 experience more severe symptoms compared to earlier Omicron variants. The most common symptoms continue to include mild nasal congestion, headache, cough, and sore throat.
Observational Data on XBB.1.16 Variant
Observational data indicate that individuals infected with the XBB.1.16 variant are more likely to experience conjunctivitis, or “pink eye,” as a symptom of their COVID-19 infection. These symptoms may appear prior to a positive COVID-19 test and are generally mild to moderate throughout the course of the illness.
Who Is at Risk from the New COVID-19 Variants?
In 2024, the high-risk groups for COVID-19 remain the same as in previous years. These groups include older adults, individuals with underlying health conditions, and those with weakened immune systems. However, younger individuals may also be at risk, especially if they are unvaccinated or have preexisting medical conditions.
The best way to protect against new variants is through vaccination and booster shots. Those at high risk and individuals who have not received a booster vaccine or had a COVID-19 infection within the last 4 to 6 months should plan to receive vaccination.
How Might Symptoms Change in the Future?
As COVID-19 continues to mutate, symptoms may evolve. For example, when Omicron emerged, patients reported eye-related symptoms such as conjunctival inflammation, redness, and irritation—symptoms not commonly seen in earlier variants.
It is possible that new variants may cause more severe symptoms or affect different parts of the body. However, accurately predicting how symptoms will change with viral mutations in 2024 and beyond remains challenging.
Do Current Vaccines Protect Me against 2024 COVID-19 Variants?
The bivalent booster can train your immune system to recognize both the original 2020 virus strain and the new BA.5 Omicron variant. While the antibody effectiveness of the bivalent booster against the XBB.1.5 variant is not yet fully established, the T-cell immunity provided by the booster is still expected to protect against severe disease if infected.
How Can We Determine Which COVID-19 Variant We Have?
The only definitive way to identify a specific COVID-19 variant is through laboratory testing that explicitly sequences the viral genome. This is typically done via a diagnostic test known as PCR (polymerase chain reaction) or through sequencing analysis. These tests are performed on respiratory samples such as nasal or throat swabs. After collection, the samples are sent to a laboratory where appropriate testing is conducted to sequence the virus and identify the specific COVID-19 variant.
Why Are There Different Variants of COVID-19?
As viruses replicate and spread through populations, they undergo mutations or changes. RNA-based viruses, such as SARS-CoV-2 (which causes COVID-19) and influenza viruses, mutate more frequently than DNA-based viruses. Every time the SARS-CoV-2 virus replicates, there is a chance for changes to occur. However, not all mutations affect the virus’s ability to spread or cause disease, especially if they do not alter proteins critical to transmission and infection.
When Is the New COVID-19 Variant Most Contagious?
It is believed that individuals are most contagious at the early stages of their illness. For Omicron, the highest transmission appears to occur 1–2 days before symptom onset and during the 2–3 days following it. Additionally, asymptomatic individuals can also transmit the coronavirus to others.
Where Is the New COVID-19 Variant Spreading?
The COVID-19 subvariant XBB.1.16, also known as Arcturus, has been detected in at least 37 countries since April 27, leading to an increase in COVID-19 cases in Southeast Asia. It has also spread in the United States, Australia, Singapore, Libya, Iran, Kuwait, and Qatar.
