Health Dept Says: No Need to Panic Over New KP.2 COVID Variant
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Nagpur, India: A new COVID-19 variant named KP.2 has been detected in Maharashtra, with 91 cases confirmed so far. Most cases are from Pune (51) and Thane (20), while others have been reported in Amravati, Sambhajinagar, Solapur, Ahmednagar, Nashik, Latur, and Sangli.
KP.2 is a subvariant of the Omicron strain and is also called the ‘FLiRT’ variant. Health experts say it spreads more easily and may escape some immune protection, but it does not appear to cause more serious illness.
Dr Rajesh Karyakarte, the state coordinator for genome sequencing, said there has not been any noticeable rise in hospital admissions due to this variant. “The cases are mild so far, and most people are recovering at home,” he noted.
Health officials are asking the public to stay alert but calm. People are advised to wear masks in crowded places, keep washing hands, and ensure they are fully vaccinated.
Authorities are keeping a close eye on the situation and say there’s no need to worry, but precautions should be taken, especially by senior citizens and those with health conditions.
