The COVID-19 variant KP.3.1.1 has become the predominant strain of SARS-CoV-2 circulating in the United States, leading to a rise in infections, according to the latest data released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Belonging to the Omicron family, KP.3.1.1 is among several JN.1-derived variants currently co-circulating in the country. For the two-week period ending August 17, this variant is estimated to account for between 31% and 43% of COVID-19 clinical specimens, a significant increase from the 20% to 26% observed in the two weeks ending August 3.
The surge in KP.3.1.1 prevalence coincides with elevated COVID-19 activity indicators, including higher test positivity rates, increased emergency department visits, and more hospitalizations. These trends are particularly noticeable among adults aged 65 and older and children under 2 years old.
In response, the CDC continues to recommend that the public receive COVID-19 vaccines to protect against severe illness. Updated vaccines, formulated to provide enhanced protection against current variants, are expected to be available this fall for the 2024 to 2025 respiratory virus season.
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COVID-19 variant KP.3.1.1 predominant in U.S. as infections rise
cgtn.com
