Daily Current Affairs : 13-May-2024

In recent months, new editions of COVID-19, collectively called FLiRT, have emerged in India. These versions, namely KP.2 and KP.1.1, are descendants of the Omicron JN.1 version. Although these new lines have raised concerns, it’s important to apprehend their characteristics and the essential precautions to prevent their spread.

Characteristics of the FLiRT Variants

The FLiRT editions display several tendencies, which include:

  • Increased transmissibility: These editions spread more easily than previous strains of COVID-19.
  • Immune evasion: They have the potential to partially avoid immunity gained from vaccines or previous infections, making it easier for people to get reinfected.
  • Mode of transmission: Like other COVID-19 variants, the FLiRT lines spread through respiratory droplets and by touching contaminated surfaces.

Differences Between KP.2 and JN.1

While the FLiRT editions are similar to the earlier Omicron strain JN.1, there are a few key variations:

  • KP.2 variant: This strain is more infectious than JN.1 but has a lower overall rate of infectivity. It spreads faster but may not cause as many cases in total compared to other variants.
  • Symptoms: The symptoms of KP.2 are similar to JN.1, including:
    • Sore throat
    • Runny nose
    • Cough
    • Fever

Preventing the Spread of FLiRT Variants

To control the spread of the FLiRT variants and minimize their impact, it is important to follow basic safety measures:

  • Wear masks in crowded places.
  • Practice hand hygiene by regularly washing hands or using hand sanitizer.
  • Maintain physical distancing to reduce close contact with potentially infected individuals.

By following these simple but effective steps, we can help reduce the spread of the FLiRT variants and protect ourselves and others from the ongoing threat of COVID-19.

Important Points:

FLiRT Variants in India: New COVID-19 variants, KP.2 and KP.1.1, have emerged, descended from the Omicron JN.1 variant.

Key Characteristics of FLiRT Variants:

  • Increased transmissibility: FLiRT variants spread more easily than earlier COVID strains.
  • Immune evasion: They can partially evade immunity from vaccines or previous infections, increasing the risk of reinfection.
  • Transmission: Spread through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.

Differences Between KP.2 and JN.1:

  • KP.2 is more infectious than JN.1 but has a lower overall rate of infectivity.
  • Symptoms of KP.2 include sore throat, runny nose, cough, and fever, similar to JN.1.

Preventing the Spread:

  • Wear masks in crowded areas.
  • Practice hand hygiene by washing hands regularly or using hand sanitizer.
  • Maintain physical distancing to avoid close contact with potentially infected individuals.

Why In News

New COVID variants, collectively known as FLiRT, have recently emerged in India, raising concerns due to their potential to spread more quickly and evade immunity from past infections or vaccinations.

MCQs about FLiRT Variants in India

  1. What is the main characteristic of the FLiRT variants of COVID-19?
    A. They cause more severe symptoms than previous variants.
    B. They have the potential to evade immunity from vaccines and previous infections.
    C. They spread through air only, not through surfaces.
    D. They only affect individuals who are unvaccinated.
    Correct Answer: B. They have the potential to evade immunity from vaccines and previous infections.
    Explanation: The FLiRT variants, including KP.2 and KP.1.1, can partially avoid immunity gained from vaccines or prior infections, making it easier for people to get reinfected.
  2. Which of the following symptoms is NOT associated with the KP.2 variant of COVID-19?
    A. Sore throat
    B. Runny nose
    C. Loss of taste and smell
    D. Cough
    Correct Answer: C. Loss of taste and smell
    Explanation: The symptoms of the KP.2 variant include sore throat, runny nose, cough, and fever, but loss of taste and smell was not specifically mentioned as a symptom of this variant.
  3. How do the FLiRT variants primarily spread?
    A. Only through direct skin contact.
    B. Through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
    C. Through insect bites.
    D. Through contaminated food and water.
    Correct Answer: B. Through respiratory droplets and contact with contaminated surfaces.
    Explanation: Like other COVID-19 variants, FLiRT variants spread primarily through respiratory droplets and by touching surfaces contaminated with the virus.
  4. What safety measure is essential to prevent the spread of the FLiRT variants?
    A. Avoiding all social interactions.
    B. Taking antibiotics as a precaution.
    C. Wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distancing.
    D. Only isolating individuals who show symptoms.
    Correct Answer: C. Wearing masks, practicing hand hygiene, and maintaining physical distancing.
    Explanation: To prevent the spread of the FLiRT variants, it is important to follow basic safety measures like wearing masks, washing hands frequently, and maintaining physical distancing in crowded areas.

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