AS MUCH as we all wish to turn the page on the COVID-19 pandemic, recent developments remind us that the virus is still very much a part of our reality. The emergence of new COVID-19 variants, identified as KP.2 and KP.3 under the label “FLiRT”, underlines the need for vigilance and adherence to health protocols that have guided us through the pandemic thus far.
Dr. Maria Socorro Colmenares-Quiñon of the Iloilo Provincial Health Office has rightly emphasized the importance of not letting our guard down. Despite the comforting news that these variants currently pose a low public health risk and that Iloilo has a stable situation with a low Average Daily Attack Rate of 0.01%, the emergence of these variants requires careful monitoring and a sustained, proactive response.
This situation should not incite panic but a recalibration of our approach to how we live with the virus. The Department of Health and the World Health Organization continue to closely monitor these variants, as they are recent descendants of the JN.1 variant, known for leading to increases in infections. It’s crucial that we heed the advice of experts and maintain preventive measures — wearing masks in crowded places, regular hand washing, and ensuring adequate ventilation remain our best defense against the virus.
The need for such precautions is further underscored by the guidance from health authorities. Individuals showing symptoms of COVID-19 are urged to wear masks to prevent further spread. At points of entry, rigorous screening procedures have been implemented, highlighting the seriousness with which we must continue to take this global health threat.
While the national health advisory focuses on the basic but essential preventive measures, we must also remember that the efficacy of previously administered vaccines might diminish against these new strains. This is a reminder of the dynamic nature of this virus and the complexity of our fight against it.
To our readers, the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over. The appearance of the FLiRT variants signals that we must remain cautious. Ignoring the protocols that have helped us manage the pandemic so far could undermine the progress we have made.
