Ireland has identified two new variants of Covid-19, named KP.1.1 and KP.2, within the Omicron category. As of May 21, the Health Service Executive (HSE) reports that 23 individuals have been infected with these new strains. Early indications suggest that these variants might spread more rapidly than previous ones.
Viruses naturally mutate over time, leading to new variants. Some of these can be more infectious or pose higher health risks. The recent surge in Covid-19 cases in the UK has been attributed to such new variants.
The symptoms caused by the KP.1.1 and KP.2 variants resemble those of other Covid-19 infections. Common symptoms include high fever, phlegm, loss of taste and smell, shortness of breath, body aches, headaches, sore throat, cold, diarrhea, and fatigue. The HSE advises individuals experiencing these symptoms to avoid contact with others for at least 48 hours. The main symptoms to watch for are fatigue, fever, and dry cough.
If someone tests positive for Covid-19, they are advised to quarantine at home for five days from the onset of symptoms to prevent further spread.