Background Information:

The COVID-19 virus emerged in March 2020 the virus affects individuals differently based on their age and existing health conditions. The elderly and those with lung problems, such as asthma, have been the most impacted by the virus.

EG.5- Newest COVID strand:

When viruses change, we refer to them as “variants”. Covid-19 has experienced several variants, including Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta. The most recent variant is known as EG.5, also referred to as Eris.

Why be concerned?:

The EG.5 variant of COVID-19 is considered to be significantly more severe than the other variants as it spreads very quickly from person to person. There is concern that this could lead to another widespread outbreak of the virus.

The virus is now able to penetrate cells more effectively and has the same impact as before, but with more transmittable.

Changes Seen recently:

Although this variant was only discovered in July of 2023, it is having a rapid impact on our day-to-day lives.

Recently, two districts in Kentucky decided to close their schools for a couple of weeks because the number of sick students and staff had reached a record high. Another district in Kentucky has also shut down as they go back to online classes because of the skyrocketing amount of students facing respiratory illnesses. 

Not only schools, but hospitals are also experiencing changes due to the increasing number of COVID patients. The hospitals are becoming overcrowded, and there may not be enough nurses and doctors to handle the situation.

Additionally, the CDC is expected to create a new booster for this variant but nothing has been announced just yet.

Even though this variant is relatively new, its potential effects on the future could be significant and imminent.

How to stay safe:

So you might be asking yourself how can I keep myself & others safe? This variant has similar safety practices as Covid-19. 

• Increasing space & distance:

It’s essential to keep a distance from people around you as the particles you exhale could contain a virus, increasing the risk of others getting affected.

Wearing a mask is an effective way to protect both yourself and others. It is essential to wear the mask properly to maximize its effectiveness. Mask prevents viruses from spreading to others, by covering your mouth.

• Wash your hands:

Regularly washing your hands is essential to keep germs at bay and prevent infections. Your hands come into contact with various surfaces in public places, which could be contaminated with harmful bacteria. By touching your eyes, nose, and mouth, you could easily transfer the germs into your body. Therefore, practicing good hand hygiene can make a significant difference in preventing the spread of infections.

• Lastly, stay at home when feeling sick:

If you’re experiencing symptoms of COVID-19 or feeling unwell, it’s recommended to stay at home and seek assistance from a medical professional. By doing so, you not only take care of yourself but also contribute to the safety of others.

Symptoms of Covid:

• Fever/Chills 
• Cough
• Shortness of breath 
• Fatigue 
• Muscle or body aches 
• Headaches

The future:

In these uncertain times, it is crucial that we take safety precautions to safeguard ourselves and our loved ones from the potential impact of this new COVID-19 variant. We must remain vigilant and do our part to protect the health and well-being of our communities.