Health authorities worldwide are concerned about the spread of the new EG.5.1 subvariant. (Eris) of the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2, which the World Health Organization (WHO) has designated as a subvariant of epidemiological interest. Scientists are monitoring its circulation in the community and the finding is that it is increasing at a rapid rate. Cases are already recorded in 51 countries. However, whether it will cause a new wave of Covid-19, it is too early to say, they emphasize. Based on the data so far, the risk posed by Eris to public health is low.

The coronavirus is here

“The “Eris” variant reminded us that SARS-CoV-2, its mutations and sub-variants, are here”, the president of the Association of Hospital Doctors of Athens-Piraeus (EINAP) Matina Pagonis emphasizes to APE-MPE. He adds that there is no indication that it causes more serious disease, her symptoms are mild and the condition is currently under control. There is no pressure on the health system, notes Ms. Pagoni. However, it recommends that people who belong to vulnerable groups (elderly, suffering from underlying diseases) be especially careful and observe personal protection measures, as they are at great risk from the increased circulation of the coronavirus in the community.

September is problematic

The scientific community is particularly troubled by Autumn. Due to summer holidays and closed schools the spread of ‘Eris’ may slow down. But in September, when people go back to work, schools open and people spend more time indoors due to changing weather, it may dominate.

As Mrs. Pagoni mentioned, emphasis must be placed on informing citizens, especially those who are at greater risk, for the observance of protection measures.

Data for Greece

According to the latest epidemiological report of the EODY, the new sub-variant “Eris” dominates in Crete. Her imprint on the events of the community is intense. Since the middle of last July, the picture has changed, as there has been an increase in cases of Covid-19 infection in the community, the majority of them mild. As stated in the EODY report, from the results of genomic analysis from July 10 to the end of the month, 45 out of 48 (94%) related to samples sent by the Virological Laboratory – PEDY of Crete. The results of the analysis of samples from the rest of the country are awaited. A total of 41 positive samples of the EG.5.1 subvariant have been recorded with sampling dates from May 31 to July 27.

The spread of the ‘Eris’ variant to 51 countries

The global incidence of the new subvariant is approximately 18% of cases. EG.5.1 already accounts for 20% of identified cases in Asia, 10% in Europe and 7% in North America. The new variant is now the second most common variant in the UK, at 14%, and in the last month the rise in this sub-variant has been accompanied by increased morbidity in the community. In the US the rate of positive cases is 17% and there is an increase in cases, visits to emergency rooms and hospitals. The scientists report that there is currently nothing to suggest that this particular strain is driving these increases.

The symptoms caused by “Eris”

* Catarrh

* Headache

* Fatigue (mild or severe)

* Sneezing

* Sore throat

* Fever (if present), lasts one to two days.

Clinically, according to Mrs. Pagoni, it does not seem to cause serious symptoms.

Reminder of personal protection measures

Ms. Pagoni considers the systematic application of personal protection and precautionary measures for people who belong to high-risk groups to be necessary.

Don’t forget the antiseptic and hand washing. Avoid hand-to-face contact (eyes, nose, mouth).

Mask use in communal areas

* If we experience mild symptoms of a respiratory infection (cough, runny nose, fever ≤ 37.6 °C, sore throat) we stay at home in isolation and monitor our health. We strictly avoid contact with people who belong to a vulnerable group.

* In case of worsening symptoms or when mild symptoms persist for more than 5 days, contact a doctor immediately for evaluation.

* If you belong to a vulnerable group (elderly people, people of any age with chronic underlying diseases, e.g. diabetes mellitus, cardiovascular and chronic respiratory diseases, arterial hypertension, immunodeficiency) contact your doctor immediately, who will also recommend the administration of antiviral treatment .