Pirola Variant: A New Twist in the Fight Against COVID-19

In what is being described as the "most striking strain of Covid-19 since Omicron," a new variant known as Pirola has raised concerns among experts worldwide. Amid fears that it might evade existing vaccines, Pirola has caused an uptick in cases across Europe and has now officially landed in the UK. To address the growing concern, the UK Government has accelerated its autumn booster program by a month, and some experts are advocating for the return of face masks in healthcare settings to safeguard vulnerable individuals.

Despite only a few dozen confirmed cases in the UK, it's essential to understand the implications of this new Covid strain. In this article, we'll delve into what you need to know about Pirola.

Q: Why is there so much talk about Pirola when new Covid strains emerge regularly?

The primary concern surrounding Pirola, scientifically referred to as BA.2.86, is its potential to bypass the protection provided by vaccines and prior infections. Unlike its predecessor, Omicron, Pirola carries a staggering 35 mutations on the spike protein, the part of the virus that vaccines target. Additionally, it possesses mutations that could help it evade the natural immune response.

When a virus accumulates more than 30 mutations, scientists must examine whether it affects vaccine effectiveness, transmission rates, or the severity of the disease it causes. This led the Department of Health and Social Care to expedite the autumn booster program, ensuring that the most vulnerable individuals receive the vaccine promptly.

While initial laboratory studies have suggested that Pirola may be less infectious and less likely to evade the immune system than initially feared, this data remains inconclusive due to the limited number of cases worldwide. The UK Health Security Agency has confirmed 36 cases in the UK, with five patients requiring hospitalization.

Q: How can I distinguish Pirola from other Covid variants, and can I get tested for it?

Pirola presents with symptoms that are indistinguishable from those of other Covid variants, including a runny nose, sore throat, headache, and fatigue. Free tests are no longer available, and there is no official requirement to self-isolate if you test positive. However, you can purchase lateral flow tests for £2 at pharmacies or opt for more definitive gold-standard PCR tests, available online for approximately £50. While these tests won't identify the specific strain, they will detect the presence of Covid.

Q: Do vaccines, boosters, or prior infections offer protection against Pirola?

Most individuals possess some level of immunity against severe disease caused by Pirola, even if they haven't received a vaccine since the mass rollout concluded in 2021. While vaccine immunity wanes over time, many people have also developed immunity through prior infections with the virus.

A small study examining Pirola found that individuals recently infected with Omicron had high levels of antibodies against the new variant. Professor Jonathan Ball, a virologist at the University of Nottingham, emphasizes that both vaccination and natural infection contribute to protection against severe disease.

Q: I'm over 65 and eligible for an autumn booster. Will it be effective against Pirola?

Scientists are actively investigating the efficacy of booster shots against Pirola. Vaccine manufacturers like Pfizer and Moderna have updated their vaccines to include another Omicron descendant, XBB.1.5, which has dominated in 2023. Preliminary data from these companies suggests that the updated vaccines generate strong responses against the Pirola strain in laboratory settings.

Even if these vaccines are somewhat less effective against Pirola, they should still provide valuable protection. Pirola's 35 mutations, while significant, cannot completely evade the immune system's recognition.

Q: What's the current situation in hospitals regarding Covid cases?

The number of Covid patients occupying hospital beds in England has risen by 15% in a week, reaching 2,500 out of a total of 140,000 beds. The most significant increases have been observed in the South West (42%), the North West (25%), and the North East and Yorkshire (23%). It's worth noting that during the height of the pandemic in January 2021, 33,000 hospital beds were occupied by Covid patients. Fortunately, the number of Covid patients in critical care has remained relatively stable, at about 60.

Q: Can I get a booster if I'm not eligible?

No, the NHS invites only eligible individuals to book a booster jab. Unlike flu vaccines, Covid boosters are not available for purchase privately in the UK. However, there is a possibility that they may become available through private providers in the US this autumn, potentially followed by the UK.

In conclusion, while the Pirola variant has raised concerns due to its multiple mutations, ongoing research and vaccination efforts offer hope in managing its impact. Staying informed, following public health guidelines, and getting vaccinated remain crucial in our ongoing battle against Covid-19 and its variants.