Eris or “EG.5” was classified as a variant of Covid-19 “to follow” on August 9, 2023 by the WHO, as it progresses in several countries around the world. At the same time, the incidence of Covid has increased in France this summer.
We had almost forgotten it but the Covid-19 virus is still circulating. After several mutations, it is the EG.5 variant – nicknamed “Eris” on social networks with reference to the greek goddess of discord- who wakes up worries around a possible reprise of the epidemic. Placed in the category of variants “under surveillance” (or VUM) mid-July 2023EG.5 is classified as a “to be continued” variant (or VOI) by theWHO since August 9. “There was a constant increase the prevalence of this variant. As of August 7, over 7,000 footage has been shared from 51 countries (especially in Asia, editor’s note)” explains the WHO, which confirms that it can “become dominant in some countries of the world or even in the world“. In France “vigilance continues” underlines Public Health France on August 11, when a “slight increase in indicators is observed” this summer. What is this new virus? Do we know his symptoms ? Its severity? Should we be worried? What the health authorities are saying today.
What is the new Eris variant?
EG.5 is a subline of XBB.1.9 (which descends from the variant Omicron). Next to 90% of sequences EG.5 World Championships correspond to its EG.5.1 sublineage. EG.5 was first reported February 17, 2023 and designated as a “variant under surveillance” (VUM) on July 19, 2023. TheWHO classified him (and his sub-lines) as a variant of interest to follow (VOI) on August 9.
What is its evolution?
Detection of the Eris variant started at increase globally in early May 2023especially in Asia (China, Japan and South Korea) then in North America (USA and Canada) and Europe. “Compared to previous variants, the increase in EG.5 follows a rather slow dynamics” reassures Public Health France. Her growth is also considered as “relatively low compared to the other variants currently circulating”.
“EG.5 can spread globally and contribute to an increase in cases”
Variant Eris in France: should we be worried?
In mainland France, the EG.5.1 variant represents 26% of interpretable sequences of the Flash survey of July 17, 2023 against 15% on July 10. At the same time, a increase in the number of emergency visits for Covid-19 and SOS Médecins medical acts for suspicion of Covid a was reported the first week of August. However, these remain at very low levels. “With the low levels of incidence currently observed, it is not unusual to observe fluctuations or localized active circulation phenomena, which will not be reflected not necessarily by large waves“ explains Public Health France.
What are the symptoms of the Eris virus?
For the moment, Covid infections linked to the Eris variant present with the usual symptoms of the virus: cold, sore throat, fatigue, headaches… In case of doubt, it is always possible to be tested in pharmacies and in laboratories.
Is it more dangerous than the other variants?
“Based on its genetic characteristics, immune evasion characteristics and estimated growth rate, EG.5 may be spreading globally and contributing to an increase in cases” explains theWHO but “at present there is no no evidence of increased disease severity directly associated with the EG.5″.