WHO Classifies EG.5 COVID Variant as 'Variant of Interest'; Low Global Health Risk


The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated the EG.5 strain of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, known as the Eris variant, as a "variant of interest" (VOI). 
This classification is based on the presence of specific genetic markers that could affect transmissibility, virulence, or neutralization by antibodies. EG.5 is a descendant of the Omicron subvariant XBB.1.9.2 and carries an additional spike protein mutation.

While EG.5 has shown increased prevalence, growth advantage, and immune escape properties, there have been no reported changes in disease severity associated with it. As of now, the global public health risk posed by EG.5 is considered low, similar to other circulating VOIs.

The variant has been detected in various countries, including India, where only one case has been reported. The WHO recommends that countries prioritize actions to address uncertainties related to EG.5, including conducting neutralization assays using human blood samples and sharing sequence information. The organization continues to assess the impact of variants on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness to guide decisions on vaccine composition updates.

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