This new strain of Omicron that acquired a delta mutation could be a cause for concern as it could be more pathogenic compared to other variants.
New data released earlier this week in the UK shows nearly a quarter of the country’s cases are contaminated with this new variant of omicron, dubbed CH.1.1 and nicknamed Orthus. This variant was also found in Spain, but also in India.
British health authorities say it could be a new variant likely to become a majority and could replace the BQ.1.
Especially since he was present 23.1% of cases on January 7th as announced by the British Health Security Agency (UKHSA), as The Independent points out.
Why the nickname Orthos?
Like the Kraken, the legendary giant sea monster from the Norse legends, to qualify the XBB.1.5 variant, this new variant also has a nickname.
Orthos is a two-headed dog of Greek mythology. A nickname that suits him well, given that he is both a subvariant of the Omicron lineage but with a mutation derived from Delta.
Symptoms and dangers of this variant
Both Orthos and Kraken have been reported to have them same symptoms as omicron. Either the runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing, sore throat, among others.
Orthos has a mutation called P681R – also present on the Delta variant – that could allow it better attack the cells and from cause more serious illnesses.
Scientists have also discovered that this variant contains R346T, which is believed to help the strain to fight the antibodies formed as a reaction to vaccination or a previous infection, as reported by the Dailymail.
Like the Kraken, this new Orthos variant has not yet been classified as “of concern”. But specialists are watching it closely to avoid a possible new wave of contamination.
Vaccination to protect yourself
Therefore, in light of these emerging variants, it is important to protect yourself with barrier gestures as well as vaccinations, which is strongly recommended by scientists.
Especially to avoid a possible new wave.