According to Dr. Ravi Shankarji Kesari, MD, a General Physician and Internal Medicine Specialist at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Bengaluru, the Eris variant of Covid-19 displays distinct mutations that set it apart from previous iterations of the Omicron variant. These mutations could potentially lead to heightened transmissibility and enhanced ability to evade the immune system.
A swiftly spreading Covid-19 variant named Eris or EG.5.1 has emerged in the United Kingdom. First identified on July 31, Eris has swiftly risen to become the second most prevalent strain, contributing to approximately 1 in 7 Covid-19 cases in the nation, as reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).
Dr. Sandeep Budhiraja, Group Medical Director at Max Healthcare, revealed that the Eris variant was initially detected in July and gained prominence as a significant strain in the UK by the end of the same month.
“Although there has been an increase in reported Covid-19 cases, the overall impact of the disease remains mild and akin to previous Omicron variants. However, initial indications suggest that the Eris variant may possess a growth advantage of nearly 20 percent over previous strains, implying a potential for faster spread compared to the previously identified Omicron strains,” he explained.
Dr. Ravi Shankarji Kesari, MD, Internal Medicine, General Physician at Apollo Spectra Hospital in Bengaluru, has highlighted that Eris, identified as a subvariant of Omicron, has been detected in several other countries, including the United States, Canada, Japan, and Australia.
“Eris exhibits distinct mutations setting it apart from previous Omicron variants. These mutations could potentially enhance transmission or increase its ability to evade the immune system,” he emphasized, underlining the need for further research to comprehend its complete implications.
Dr. Sabine Kapasi, a Public Health leader at UNDAC & Geneva, has noted that the transmission pattern of the Eris variant closely resembles that of the original Covid-19 strain. “The primary mode of transmission remains respiratory droplets, released during coughing, sneezing, talking, or breathing by an infected individual. Furthermore, transmission can occur through contact with contaminated surfaces or objects, followed by contact with the face—particularly the mouth, nose, or eyes. Notably, close interaction with asymptomatic carriers poses a significant risk of transmission.”
Who Is Vulnerable?
Individuals aged 65 and older, as well as those with underlying health conditions (comorbidities), are considered to be at a higher risk, as highlighted by Dr. Budhiraja.
Nevertheless, he noted that the available data from the UK indicates a minimal increase in hospitalizations and a negligible rise in ICU admissions, suggesting that the disease associated with the Eris variant tends to be relatively mild.
The surge in infections could be attributed to diminishing immunity stemming from prior infections or vaccinations.
Experts have outlined a range of precautionary steps to help minimize the risk of contracting the Eris variant, including:
– Receiving Covid-19 vaccinations and booster shots
– Wearing masks in indoor public settings
– Practicing social distancing
– Frequent handwashing
– Avoiding close contact with individuals who are unwell
– Ensuring adequate room ventilation
In conclusion, Dr. Budhiraja emphasized the utmost importance of adhering to Covid-appropriate practices. He further recommended that if there is a rise in the occurrences of respiratory illnesses within the country, it would be prudent to enhance the scale of Covid-19 testing through random sampling. He noted that as of now, instances of the Eris variant have not been reported in India.
