Covid variant Eris that is spreading in the UK now was detected in India in May

Health officials in Maharashtra have found the novel subvariant of the Omicron, EG.5.1, which is associated with the rapid rise of Covid 19 cases in the UK. According to the Times of India, the new variant, nicknamed Eris is reported to be traced in India in May 2023.

After a period of some calm, Maharashtra is also witnessing a small uptick in Covid-19 cases, prompting health authorities to remain cautious.

Is it serious yet?

Dr Rajesh Karyakarte, the state's genome sequencing in charge and a senior scientist associated with Pune's BJ Medical College shared insights with TOI, stating, "EG.5.1 was initially detected in Maharashtra in May. Despite the passage of two months since its detection, we have yet to observe a significant surge in Covid-19 cases during June and July. Currently, subvariants XBB.1.16 (arcturus) and XBB.2.3 (acrux) continue to dominate."

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Maharashtra numbers

• Maharashtra state health department data shows a recent increase in active Covid-19 cases, rising from 70 at the close of July to 115 by August 6.
• The current rise in Covid-19 cases spanning over the past few days could be attributed to respiratory infections that usually make way for a seasonal surge in Covid-19 cases during June-September.
• Most of the infected patients are mild and the ones who needed intensive care are either old or have underlying health conditions.
• Hence, there isn't any conclusive evidence that the new variant is driving the case rise. A more extended monitoring period is needed before classifying the recent trend as a definitive "increase" in cases.

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Spread in the UK

• Raising international concern, the newfound Omicron subvariant Eris has ignited apprehension in the United Kingdom, leading to a health alert in the country.

• First classified as a variant on 31 July, Eris now accounts for one in 10 Covid cases and has become the second most prevalent variant in the UK, with Arcturus (another variant) being the most dominant at 39.4% of all infections, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA).

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Eris, thus far, has not managed to exert significant dominance in India. However, the importance of monitoring, particularly in the context of hospital admissions needs a vigilant watch.