Eris Variant
In recent news, a new variant of interest has emerged, known as the Eris variant or EG.5. Descending from the Omicron lineage of XBB.1.9.2, this variant has sparked attention due to specific mutations and its potential impact on global health.
This topic of “Eris Variant” is important from the perspective of the UPSC IAS Examination, which falls under General Studies Portion.
The Eris Variant: EG.5 Lineage and Mutation Details
Alias and Ancestry
Referred to as EG.5, the Eris variant is a descendant of the Omicron lineage XBB.1.9.2.
- Specific Mutation in EG.5: F456L Amino Acid Mutation
- This mutation is distinct when compared to the XBB.1.9.2 and XBB.1.5 lineages.
- EG.5 Lineage Subvariant: EG.5.1
- The EG.5 lineage further branches into EG.5.1, which exhibits an additional spike mutation known as Q52H.
- This subvariant is predominant, representing 88% of sequences descended from EG.5, as reported by the WHO.
Significance of the Eris Variant
WHO’s Designation and Statement
The Eris variant has been designated as a variant of interest by the World Health Organization (WHO).
- According to the WHO, EG.5 has the potential for global spread, and while it might contribute to a surge in cases, there is no direct evidence linking it to increased disease severity.
Timeline, Global Presence, and Prevalence
Initial Report and Spread
The Eris variant was first reported on February 17 this year.
- As of August 9, the variant has been detected in 48 countries.
Country-Specific Prevalence
The prevalence of the Eris variant varies across countries, with China, the USA, and the Republic of Korea showing significant figures:
- China: Initial prevalence at 24.7%, now at 45.0%.
- USA: Initial prevalence at 5.6%, now at 12.8%.
- Republic of Korea: Initial prevalence at 7.6%, now at 19.3%.
Eris Variant in India
In India, the Eris variant has also made its presence known:
- Detected Locations:
- Maharashtra: EG.5.1 variant detected in May.
- Kerala: Presence noted.
- Other State Case Counts:
- West Bengal: 220 cases.
- Uttar Pradesh: 60 cases.
- Maharashtra: 98 cases.
- Tripura: 17 cases.
- Sikkim: 14 cases.
- Odisha: 13 cases.
- Haryana: 23 cases.
- Delhi: 7 cases.
- Himachal Pradesh: 10 cases.
- Karnataka: 17 cases.
- Telangana: 4 cases.
- Mizoram: 4 cases.
- Gujarat: 3 cases.
- Tamil Nadu: 5 cases.
