Summary:
- The 'Eris' COVID variant is causing a summer wave of infections, with mutations that enable immune escape.
- Hospitalizations have risen, especially among vulnerable populations, but the overall rate is lower than previous surges.
- Vaccinated individuals and those with prior immunity should still have some protection against the 'Eris' variant.
- Surges are observed in the Midwest and parts of the South due to factors like indoor activities and declining immunity.
- Waiting for the upcoming booster is advised, particularly for those with comorbidities and older age.
- The availability of free testing has decreased, posing challenges for tracking the surge's extent.
- COVID is considered an endemic virus that will continue to circulate and evolve.
- Medications like Paxilovid and future antivirals play a role in addressing the evolving variants.
The World Health Organization has labeled the new COVID variant 'Eris' as a variant of interest, sparking concerns about its potential severity. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb sheds light on the situation and emphasizes that there is currently no evidence suggesting that the 'Eris' variant is more pathogenic than previous variants.
Summer Wave of Cases
Dr. Gottlieb explains that there is a current summer wave of COVID cases, mainly driven by the 'Eris' variant. This variant, named EG5, possesses a mutation that allows it some immune escape compared to previous omicron variants.
Hospitalization Rates
The 'Eris' variant has caused an uptick in hospitalizations, particularly among older individuals and those who are immunocompromised. However, the overall hospitalization rate in the U.S. is lower than during previous surges.
Pathogenicity and Immunity
Dr. Gottlieb emphasizes that despite the increase in cases, there is no evidence to suggest that the 'Eris' variant is more pathogenic than previous variants. Vaccinated individuals with immunity from prior infections are likely to have some protection against this new variant.
Wastewater Data and Surges
The wastewater data indicates that infections are surging in the Midwest and parts of the South. Dr. Gottlieb explains that factors such as indoor activities due to air conditioning, declining immunity, and mutations in the variant contribute to these surges.
Vaccination and Boosters
Dr. Gottlieb encourages vaccination, especially for individuals at higher risk. He suggests waiting for the new booster that is expected to be available in mid to late September. He believes it's crucial for those with comorbidities and older individuals to get vaccinated.
Testing and Winter Outlook
The availability of free testing has decreased, making it harder to gauge the true extent of the surge. Dr. Gottlieb anticipates that the variant will run its course by the end of September into October. He acknowledges the challenges of testing in the upcoming colder months.
Endemic Nature of the Virus
Dr. Gottlieb views COVID as an endemic virus that will continue to circulate and evolve. He suggests that while reinfections may occur, people should not expect to be infected every year or multiple times in a year.
Medications and Innovation
Regarding medications, Paxilovid and other antivirals are discussed. Dr. Gottlieb mentions that second-generation antivirals are in development, and there will likely be continued innovation to address evolving variants.
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Dr. Gottlieb provides insights into the 'Eris' variant, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and ongoing vigilance. He predicts the variant's course over the coming months and addresses the evolving nature of COVID.