NEW YORK, Dec 2: Four years after the first confirmed case of COVID-19, a new variant named BA.2.86, or "Pirola," is causing concerns among experts. While it currently represents nearly 10% of cases in the United States, its impact and implications for public health are being closely monitored as the world faces a new phase of the pandemic.

The BA.2.86 variant initially garnered attention for its ability to infect a large number of people and evade immunity acquired from previous infections and vaccines. Recently classified as a "variant of interest" by the World Health Organization, it has raised questions about its potential impact on the ongoing COVID-19 situation.

Dr. T. Ryan Gregory, an evolutionary and genome biologist, expresses concern not about a massive wave like Omicron but rather a sustained pressure on healthcare systems. The rise of a variety of variants, not just one, keeps infection and hospitalization rates consistently high, contributing to challenges in managing the pandemic's impact.

BA.2.86, first identified in Israel over the summer, has distinctive mutations, particularly in its spike protein, raising concerns about potential immune evasion and reinfection. The variant's evolution within individuals with chronic infections adds another layer of concern, with the emergence of recombinant variants like XBB.1.5, which dominated infections in 2023.

Experts emphasize the importance of protecting immunocompromised individuals and addressing the challenges posed by evolving lineages in the larger population. Dr. Rajendram Rajnarayanan adds concerns about the lack of proper monitoring tools and the simultaneous challenges of other respiratory viruses, such as seasonal influenza and RSV.

Despite the worries, there is some positive news. The BA.2.86 variant does not seem to cause more severe acute illness, and current vaccines are expected to be effective against it. Recent studies indicate that new booster shots are likely to neutralize the variant, providing a level of protection against severe illness.

As the holiday season approaches, experts advise caution and mindfulness. Dr. Rajnarayanan suggests enjoying gatherings but remaining vigilant about symptoms and following public health guidelines, including wearing masks and staying away from visibly ill individuals. While concerns persist, the collective efforts to address the evolving situation, including vaccinations and adherence to safety measures, remain crucial in navigating this new phase of the pandemic.