KP.3, a descendant of Omicron, has become more dominant in recent months.
As of mid-April, KP.3 made up only 1.8% of COVID cases.
KP.3 is closely related to other FLiRT variants KP.1 and KP.2, as well as the newly emerging LB.1.
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Together, these variants make up approximately 70% of currently circulating [COVID-19 infections], Wang said.
Theres no reason to believe rapid tests wont detect KP.3 or viral mutations.
Like other viruses, the virus that causes illness with COVIDmutatesto become more adaptable.
These mutations occur when the viruss genetic code changes, which may make it easier to infect more people.
However, COVID-19 tests werent built to detect only some variants.
When to Test for COVID
Despite the warmer weather, COVID-19 is still circulating.
Wang said she has seen the current data, showing an uptick in cases reflected in her region.
Certain health conditions may prompt certain people to test outside of these two scenarios, Wang added.
Experts said KP.3 hasnt been associated with any new COVID-19 symptoms.
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Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.COVID-19 update for the United States.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.SARS-CoV-2 variant classifications and definitions.
Food and Drug Administration.Understanding at-home OTC COVID-19 antigen diagnostic test results.
Food and Drug Administration.SARS-CoV-2 viral mutations: impact on COVID-19 tests.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.Symptoms of COVID-19.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.COVID-19 testing: what it’s crucial that you know.
