Rise of COVID-19 Variant EG.5

The World Health Organization (WHO) has recently upgraded the COVID-19 variant EG.5 to a variant of interest (VOI) from a variant under monitoring (VUM). This distinction comes as the variant continues to gain prominence worldwide. Affectionately known as ‘Eris’ by some media outlets, EG.5 aligns with the Greek alphabet designations given to other variants.

Global Presence and Origins

EG.5 has now been detected in a total of 51 countries. Notably, China accounts for the highest number of sequences, contributing to approximately 30.6% of cases. The United States follows with 18.4% (1356 sequences), while the Republic of Korea stands at 14.1% (1040 sequences), and Japan at 11.1% (814 sequences). Other countries that have submitted a considerable number of sequences, at least 100, include Canada (5.3%, 392 sequences), Australia (2.1%, 158 sequences), Singapore (2.1%, 154 sequences), the United Kingdom (2.0%, 150 sequences), France (1.6%, 119 sequences), Portugal (1.6%, 115 sequences), and Spain (1.5%, 107 sequences), according to the WHO.

Prevalence and Progression

In the week leading up to July 23rd, the global prevalence of EG.5 rose to 17.4%, a sharp increase from the previous four weeks when it stood at 7.6%. While the variant’s prevalence is gaining traction, it is important to note that the public health risk remains low at the global level. This level of risk aligns with that posed by other currently circulating VOIs, such as XBB.1.16. Moreover, while EG.5 is believed to be more infectious, it does not appear to be more virulent than other strains.

As the world continues to closely monitor the development and impact of COVID-19 variants, the upgrade of EG.5 to a VOI highlights the need for sustained vigilance and decisive measures to control its spread.