The Latest on Eris: A Comprehensive Update on the New COVID Variant
The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring a new strain of COVID-19 called EG.5, or "Eris," which is becoming more prevalent in countries like China and the United States. While designated as a "variant of interest," the WHO states that it currently poses a low global public health risk. Symptoms of Eris are similar to previous variants, and there have been no reported changes in disease severity. EG.5 is now the dominant strain in the U.S., accounting for 17.3% of cases. The variant is expected to be better protected against by upcoming reformulated vaccines, which will be available in the U.S. from late September.