What is the official name, as designated by the World Health Organization (WHO), of the most recently identified and widely circulating variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19? Furthermore, what are its key characteristics, such as its lineage (e.g., is it an Omicron subvariant?), its estimated transmissibility compared to previous variants, and any notable differences in symptoms or severity of illness observed so far?

Answer

As of June 19, 2024, there is no single “new COVID variant” dominating global discussions or causing significant alarm. However, the virus continues to evolve, and several Omicron subvariants are currently being monitored. These subvariants are constantly emerging and being tracked by organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Naming conventions for variants have evolved. Initially, variants of concern (VOCs) were given Greek letter names (Alpha, Beta, Delta, Omicron). Now, with the dominance of Omicron, attention is focused on its sublineages. These sublineages are typically identified using a combination of letters and numbers following the Omicron designation (e.g., BA.2, BA.5, JN.1, KP.2, KP.3).

The WHO and CDC monitor these sublineages to assess their potential impact on transmissibility, severity, and immune escape. When a subvariant demonstrates significant changes in these characteristics, it may be designated a variant of interest (VOI) or a VOC. However, as of the current date, no new major variant requiring a new Greek letter designation has emerged.

Current variants being monitored include different Omicron sublineages. For example, the KP.2 and KP.3 variants have been recently noted. These are descendants of JN.1 and exhibit mutations that might affect transmissibility or immune evasion.