A new Covid variant has been detected in Northern Ireland (Stock image)
A new variant of Covid named ‘FLiRT’ has been confirmed in Northern Ireland, according to the Public Health Agency.
Six cases of the variant also known as ‘KP.2’ have been identified so far, while cases have also been detected in the Republic of Ireland.
According to the Public Health Agency, the FLiRT variant has become increasingly common in the United States and the United Kingdom.
In a statement, a spokesperson for the health agency said: “More than four years since the first COVID-19 case in Northern Ireland, vaccination continues to offer the best protection for people who are at risk of becoming seriously ill with COVID-19.
“COVID-19 infection can cause more serious illness in older people and in people with certain underlying health conditions. For these reasons they are being offered a spring booster of the vaccine to ensure they have the best protection against future waves of infection.
“The virus that causes COVID-19 is constantly evolving, with new variants arising frequently. Some of these can become dominant and could cause further waves of infection.
“Vaccines are the most effective way to prevent or reduce the impact of infectious diseases, as they teach our immune system to recognise and fight viruses.”
The Public Health Agency also said due to the majority of people in Northern Ireland no longer being tested “this is only a small sample of a larger number of cases and there is not yet enough evidence to judge the effect of this variant’s mutations”.
They added that public health authorities will monitor its spread and severity, as with previous variants.
Sarah Carter is a health and wellness expert residing in the UK. With a background in healthcare, she offers evidence-based advice on fitness, nutrition, and mental well-being, promoting healthier living for readers.
