New Variant BA.2.86 Responsible for Nearly 1 in 10 New COVID-19 Cases in the US, CDC Estimates Show
The BA.2.86 variant of COVID-19 is now responsible for nearly 1 in 10 new cases in the United States, according to estimates released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This represents a significant increase from the previous estimate two weeks ago, which suggested the variant accounted for only 3% of cases. The latest estimate of 8.8% through November 25 has almost tripled in just two weeks.
The prevalence of BA.2.86 is particularly high in the Northeast region, with 13.1% of cases in the New York and New Jersey area attributed to this strain. This is its first time being listed as a standalone variant in the CDC’s estimates. Previously, the XBB variant and its descendants, including HV.1 and EG.5, were the dominant strains causing new cases.
The CDC’s estimates come with a wide margin of error, suggesting that the BA.2.86 variant could account for as little as 4.8% or as much as 15.2% of the circulating SARS-CoV-2 virus. Nonetheless, the substantial increase in its proportion suggests its rapid spread and impact.
The World Health Organization has classified BA.2.86 as a “variant of interest” due to the rise in cases. However, early data does not indicate that this variant causes worse or different symptoms compared to previous strains. Nevertheless, there is a substantial increase in reports of this variant.
While the CDC does not currently believe that BA.2.86 is driving increases in infections or hospitalizations in the United States, it has observed an increase in COVID-19 spread indicators across the country as winter approaches. Emergency department visits are on the rise, indicating the need for continued vigilance and preventive measures.
In addition to BA.2.86, the JN.1 variant, a descendant of BA.2.86, has been identified as the fastest-growing subvariant worldwide. Authorities in Europe, particularly France, have reported a significant increase in JN.1 infections. Recent data suggests that up to a third of COVID-19 variants reported in the US are of the JN.1 variant.
The CDC expects that BA.2.86 and its offshoots, including JN.1, will continue to increase as a proportion of SARS-CoV-2 sequences. However, they remain confident that current COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines will remain effective against these variants, similar to their BA.2.86 parent variant.
As the situation evolves and new variants continue to emerge, public health agencies and healthcare providers must monitor and adapt their strategies to ensure the ongoing protection of the population.
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