Understanding HV.1: The Latest COVID-19 Variant Emerging in the United States

 Understanding HV.1: The Latest COVID-19 Variant Emerging in the United States

As the United States heads into another respiratory virus season, a novel COVID-19 variant, known as HV.1, is becoming increasingly dominant. This variant, labeled HV.1 by scientists, exhibits a heightened infectiousness and the ability to enter human cells more efficiently. It is important to emphasize that, despite its classification as more infectious, HV.1 does not seem to induce more severe symptoms compared to its predecessor, EG.5 (also known as Eris).

Key Points to Know About HV.1:

1. Increased Infectiousness: HV.1 is spreading more readily among the population due to its enhanced infectivity. This characteristic is contributing to its rise in prevalence.

2. Symptom Similarity: Despite its heightened infectivity, HV.1 does not appear to cause more severe symptoms when compared to EG.5. The symptoms and severity associated with HV.1 are similar to those of its predecessor.

3. Not to Be Underestimated: It is crucial to stress that even though COVID-19 cases may not be categorized as "severe," the disease should not be taken lightly. People are still experiencing significant illness, hospitalization, and long-term effects. The spectrum of symptoms and severity can vary greatly, from mild to severe, so it is important to remain vigilant.

4. Worrisome Timing: The emergence of HV.1 during the fall and winter months raises concerns. With people spending more time indoors, colder weather, and numerous holidays, there is a heightened risk of increased COVID-19 cases. While HV.1 might be a contributing factor, it is also influenced by seasonal changes and various other factors.

Additionally, there is limited information available about an even newer variant, JN.1, primarily detected in Iceland. JN.1 is a mutation of the BA.2.86 variant, a descendant of the omicron variant responsible for a surge in COVID-19 cases in early 2022. As of now, JN.1 has been reported in several countries, including the U.K., France, and Portugal.

Oakeson, the chief scientist for next-generation sequencing and bioinformatics at the Utah Department of Health and Human Services, mentions that the number of JN.1 cases is increasing, but it is yet to be determined if it will reach the same level of concern as previous variants.

The latest data from the CDC indicates that HV.1 has become the most prevalent variant in the United States, responsible for approximately 25% of COVID-19 cases. Eris (EG.5) remains a close second, accounting for nearly 22% of cases. Both HV.1 and Eris are descendants of XBB.1.5, an omicron-related variant targeted by the recently updated COVID-19 vaccine. However, despite the vaccine's availability since mid-September, only a small percentage of Utahns have received their annual COVID-19 vaccine doses, similar to the flu shot.

In summary, the emergence of HV.1 underscores the evolving nature of the virus and the need for continued vigilance and public health measures. While the symptoms of this variant may not be drastically different from its predecessors, it remains a significant public health concern, especially in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic.