Viruses continuously mutate to produce new variants. These mutations sometimes become serious and considerable for social health where some of them are less harmful.
What is Eris (E.G.5.1) Variant?
For a few months, a new Covid Variant nicknamed Eris (The Greek goddess of discord and strife) dominated the news. This Variant evolved from XBB.1.16 (Arcturus) Variant which was a subvariant of Omicron discovered in 2022. However, Eris has surpassed XBB.1.16 by its epidemic potential.
What is the difference between Eris Variant compared to the other Variants?
CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) announced that 29.4% of the total Covid cases were caused by Eris. The structure of the variant had been discovered in December 2022. The significance of this variant comes from the fact that its mutation is in the spike protein (the site where the virus enters the host cells) of the virus and this allows the virus to escape the body’s defenses. In this way, it can spread more easily.
Is there a risk of a new epidemic caused by Eris Variant?
Anne Hahn Ph.D., a scientist in Yale University who leads SARS COV-2 genomic surveillance announced that Eris and its subvariant BA.2.86, escape from the body’s immune defense but this is not yet a threat of epidemic for human health. However, as the winter months approach, it will be necessary to increase the strength of the immune system and the hygienic precautions.
Has the Eris Variant been detected in Turkey?
Fahrettin Koca, The Minister of Health of Turkey, announced on 27th Sept 2023 that a limited number of cases had been detected in Turkey but as it is known that all viruses mutate continuously and do not disappear totally, this mutation should be considered as normal and there is no concern of epidemics at this moment.
Is the Eris variant causing infection and what is the incubation period in case of contact?
It has not yet been observed that the Eris variant causes serious results such as death. The incubation period of the virus is 4-5 days after the contact. This is the same period as the virus itself.
How can we protect ourselves from the infection?
The precautions that have been taken during the Covid pandemic are valid.
- Personal hygiene (hand and surface disinfection procedures should be performed)
- Avoiding contact with a suspected person who appears to be infected for any reason.
- Wearing a mask and trying not to spend time indoors where there are many people
- Supporting immunity with minerals and vitamins.
- Getting a new booster vaccine
What are the symptoms of Eris Covid Infection?
Although varies from person to person, the general symptoms that might be observed are;
- Coughing
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Runny nose
- Muscle pain and weakness
- Fatigue
- Loss of appetite, taste, and smell
- Diarrhea
How is the Eris Variant diagnosed?
Although a specific laboratory test detecting the Eris virus has not yet been designed, the best tool to detect Eris is still PCR because it has evolved from the Omicron Variant.
