New COVID-19 Variant,XFG (“Frankenstein”),Fuels Summer resurgence in France
Paris,France – A new variant of SARS-CoV-2,dubbed XFG and informally called “Frankenstein” due to its mutated spike protein,is driving a summer wave of COVID-19 in France,prompting renewed calls for vaccination and mask-wearing as autumn approaches. While currently considered less severe than previous waves, health officials are monitoring its spread and preparing for potential continuation into the winter months.
This resurgence,occurring even during typically low-transmission summer months,marks a shift in the pandemic’s pattern and underscores the virus’s continued ability to evolve. The XFG variant’s increased ability to evade existing immunity, combined with waning vaccine protection, is raising concerns about potential impact on vulnerable populations.
The World Health Institution (WHO) added XFG to its surveillance list on June 25, citing mutations in the spike protein – specifically at amino acid positions 478 and 487 – that “promote the avoidance of antibodies.” According to the WHO,these mutations enhance the variant’s ability to bypass immunity gained from prior infection or vaccination.
Public health professor at the University of Geneva,Antoine flahault,reports that symptoms associated with the XFG variant are consistent with previous COVID-19 strains: “an Infection of the upper respiratory tree (cough,rhinorrhea,sore throat),rarely a loss of taste and/or smell.”
Though, Flahault cautions that while severe complications remain rare, they can occur in individuals with compromised immune systems, including the elderly, infants, pregnant women, and those undergoing treatments that suppress immunity.”Severe complications are rare, but can occur in people whose immunity is faulty,” he stated.
Health officials are recommending a return to preventative measures, especially the wearing of FFP2 masks in poorly ventilated spaces. A new vaccination campaign is scheduled to begin October 14, coinciding with the annual flu vaccination drive, to bolster protection ahead of the winter season.
