(Photo courtesy of healthshots). “Illustration of BA.2.68 Covid-19 variant molecule.”
Julie Sage
Connector Staff
The height of the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, but it’s not over based on the number of people on campus who have been sick. This is caused by the new COVID variants, of which there are many types, that have mutated to get around immunity. There are a few of these variants that are particularly worth noting.
Presently, the dominating variants are EG.5 and FL.1.5.1, which are versions of the Omicron variant. EG.5 is the most predominant variant right now, making up 30% of the cases in New England, according to the CDC. It has been related to an increase in cases. Luckily, this variant doesn’t seem to be causing any worsening symptoms and is focused more on the throat and nose instead of the lungs like the previous variants. However, the elderly population and those who are immune compromised are at high risk. The same case goes for the FL.1.5.1 variant, with an increase of cases from 10% to 15% in New England.
Another emerging variant that has caused some concern is BA.2.86. This variant has 34 different mutations, which has caused widespread fear as all mutations targeted cells. There have been less than 100 cases so far. Cases have been reported in five states: Michigan, New York, Ohio, Virginia and Texas. Scientists don’t have much information on it yet. However, due to the low number of confirmed cases, it doesn’t appear as dangerous as previously believed. Previous COVID antibodies and recent vaccines can neutralize this variant.
While these variants may seem overwhelming, the good news is that all variants are similar. The vaccine booster released in September appears to be effective against all current variants. Dr. Karyn Heavner from the Zuckerburg College of Health Sciences said, “There is evidence that the newest vaccines do provide protection against the most common variants and probably also the newer BA.2.86 variant. It is important that students are aware of the COVID-19 vaccination recommendations for their age and immune status.”
The CDC recommends that those previously vaccinated get one dose of one of the updated vaccines. Those not yet vaccinated should get two doses. Immunocompromised people could also receive a second dose of the updated vaccine to increase their chances of immunity.
Other precautions to take against COVID-19, as recommended by the CDC, include improving ventilation, going outside when possible, and getting tested if symptoms of COVID-19 are present. If exposed to someone with COVID-19, then testing should be done. It is recommended to wear a mask for ten days and monitor for any symptoms. When choosing a mask, it is important that the mask fits the face and covers the mouth and nose. If the test comes back positive, then the CDC recommends staying home for at least five days and wearing a mask when around others. It will be necessary for students and staff on campus to follow these recommendations and for all other students and staff to understand the situation to keep the community safe. According to Dr. Heavner, this will be especially important in the upcoming months, “The numbers of COVID-19 and flu cases will likely increase as we start to spend more time indoors in the fall and winter. We do have people at high risk for experiencing severe illness from COVID-19 or who live with people at high risk on our campus and in the community. I expect that more people may resume wearing masks in the winter and hope that we can be respectful and compassionate about other people’s health and choices.”
