New COVID-19 variant expected to become dominant strain this winter – WKRC TV Cincinnati

New COVID-19 variant expected to become dominant strain this winter

by Liz Bonis & Megan Burgasser, WKRC

(WKRC)

CINCINNATI (WKRC) - Infectious disease specialists are closely monitoring the newest COVID-19 variant. Its expected to become the dominant strain this fall and winter.

This newest variant is in the family tree from Omicron and its growth is soaring.

The new COVID-19 vaccine does offer protection against it, targeting Omicrons descendants.

So, this is its own vaccine itself. We aren't boosting on an old version of the vaccine, so anybody that's not had the vaccine in the past two months is a candidate for the new vaccine, said Ben Prewitt, a Kroger Health pharmacist.

The HV.1 danger is that it appears to be spreading rapidly among those who come into close contact with others. It's working its way around current immunity.

HV.1 made up just 0.5% of cases in late July. Now, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimates it has overtaken EG.5, which has been the dominant strain until now.

HV. 1 is now responsible for one in five new cases. Its highly transmissible, but so far, does not appear to be more severe.

Wilma Hancock chose to get the COVID-19 vaccine anyway.

Because Ive had it, I dont want to get it again, said Hancock.

Getting the vaccine can reduce the viral load in a persons body, so the person becomes less likely to transmit HV.1 or another variant to others.

As for HV.1s symptoms, its mainly a cough, fatigue, runny nose, and congestion. Those are common with other respiratory illnesses, so its suggested that a person take an at-home COVID-19 test at the first sign of any symptoms. If its negative, test again a day or two later.

Medications to ease the symptoms for those at risk, such as Paxlovid, need to be started within five days of symptom onset.

To find where the new COVID-19 vaccine is available: Schedule Your COVID-19 Vaccine or Booster Online, click here.

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New COVID-19 variant expected to become dominant strain this winter - WKRC TV Cincinnati