Double FLip mutation in Covid EG.5.1 variant led to rebound of mild cases this summer

The new variant of the Covid virus, EG.5.1, is more infectious than other XBB variants of SARS-CoV 2 due to a double mutation called Flip, which is causing an increase in cases, although they are reported to be less severe , has not been confirmed. considered a worrying fact.

this Spanish Society of Primary Care Physicians (SEMERGEN) It revealed that the incidence of the new coronavirus had increased, but insisted that the clinical situation was milder than during the pandemic due to vaccinations.

Carlos Montalvá, head of the SEMERGEN emergency task force, told Cadena SER: “This summer, there has been an increase in cases of colds, influenza A and COVID-19, but the symptoms are milder than during the pandemic.” However, “The virus of greatest concern right now is influenza, which has much more severe symptoms than other viruses,” and also noted that the number of colds has increased due to warmer temperatures and the use of air conditioning.

Likewise, after the incidence rate started to increase Coronavirus A new variant of the virus has emerged, E.G.5.1Compared with other XBB variants of SARS-CoV 2, due to the flip This has led to an increase in cases, although they do not report severity.

Antonio Zapatero, Director of Internal Medicine, Fuenlabrada Hospital, Madridexplained on Twitter that its circulation is still low at about 2%, but in some countries such as Brazil and Spain it is higher; in Spain specifically, it is between 15% and 20% % between.

“EG.5.1, presenting double mutations, F456L and L455F, F and L and mutations between L and F, Hence the name FLipwhich makes it increasingly linked to respiratory recipients and justifies the increase in cases and their presence in wastewater,” continued Zapatero, head of the department. BJP Health Aid and Public Health Field since leaving office Undersecretary of Public Health and Planning Covid-19 of Madrid.

The expert continued on Twitter: “From a clinical point of view, the clinical situation remains mild, but transmission may increase. Another important aspect is related to the booster vaccine in vulnerable and high-risk groups.” He pointed out that the booster effect of the vaccine The next autumn-winter launch should include at least the XBB.1.5 variant, which has the same aspects as EG.5.1, which will make it more effective against severe Covid.”