A new COVID-19 variant, KP.3, is rapidly spreading across the United States, accounting for 36.9% of positive infections between June 23 and July 6, according to the latest data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). This variant is similar to the JN.1 and “FLiRT” variants KP.1.1 and KP.2. Here’s everything you need to know as cases continue to rise nationwide:
Symptoms of KP.3
The CDC has not identified any symptoms unique to the KP.3 variant. However, those affected by KP.3 exhibit symptoms similar to the JN.1 variant, according to Rosa Norman, a spokesperson for the agency. These symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
The CDC advises individuals experiencing severe symptoms such as breathing issues, chest pain, confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, and pale, gray, or blue-colored skin, lips, or nail beds to seek immediate medical attention.
Rapid rise of KP.3 in the U.S.
Norman said, “Estimates predict that KP.3 is the dominant SARS-CoV-2 variant, making up 31.2 to 43% of viruses nationally. KP.3 is projected to continue increasing as proportions of the variants that cause COVID-19.” She added, “KP.3 evolved from JN.1, which was the major viral lineage circulating since December 2023.”
Hardest-hit states
According to the CDC’s data, the five U.S. states with the largest increase in positive COVID cases, a 4.7% rise from June 29 to July 5, are Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas.
As the KP.3 variant continues to spread, health officials urge the public to remain vigilant and follow recommended health guidelines to mitigate the impact of this new wave.
