A new variant of COVID - HV.1, currently dominates

A novel COVID-19 variant named HV.1 has surged to prominence in the United States, constituting nearly one-third of nationwide cases, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Emerging during the summer as a highly infectious omicron subvariant, HV.1 surpassed other strains, including EG.5 (Eris), to become the predominant variant.

As of November 11, HV.1 accounted for 29% of new COVID-19 infections in the U.S., followed by EG.5 at 22%, FL.1.5.1 or "Fornax," and XBB.1.16 or "Arcturus." Despite its prevalence, HV.1 is yet to acquire a catchy nickname, distinguishing it from its predecessors.

All the dominant variants in the past year in the U.S. are descendants of omicron, which started circulating in November 2021, exemplifying the virus's capacity to mutate and spawn highly contagious iterations.

Amidst the respiratory virus season, HV.1's ascent coincides with health officials introducing updated COVID-19 vaccines. Although the booster provides protection against newer variants, the low vaccination rate among Americans poses challenges.

Presently, COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations are declining, but experts anticipate a winter resurgence. Dr. William Schaffner from Vanderbilt University Medical Center notes that the U.S. experienced an uptick in cases during the past three winter seasons.

Questions linger about HV.1's contagiousness, severity, symptoms, and the efficacy of updated COVID-19 vaccines. Dr. Schaffner and infectious disease specialists provide insights:

What is HV.1?

HV.1, a member of the omicron family, is considered a grandchild of omicron, specifically a sublineage of omicron XBB.1.9.2 and a direct descendant of EG.5. It remains closely related to existing omicron subvariants.

Is HV.1 more transmissible?

HV.1, like other omicron subvariants, is highly transmissible. The increased transmissibility likely contributed to its rapid dominance in the U.S. Experts suggest that it might be slightly more effective at evading prior immunity but not enough to raise alarm. However, Dr. Schaffner emphasizes that, despite increased transmissibility, HV.1 does not seem to cause more severe disease or lead to more hospitalizations.

What are HV.1 symptoms?

Symptoms caused by HV.1 resemble those of recent variants, including sore throat, congestion, runny nose, cough, fatigue, headache, muscle aches, fever, or chills. Notably, congestion, sore throat, and dry cough are currently prominent symptoms.

Do COVID-19 tests detect HV.1?

All COVID-19 tests, including PCR tests and rapid at-home antigen tests, detect HV.1. Testing is crucial for distinguishing COVID-19 from other viruses with similar symptoms.

Does the new COVID-19 vaccine protect against HV.1?

The updated COVID-19 vaccine is recommended for everyone aged 6 months and older. It has been reformulated to target omicron XBB.1.5 but remains effective against HV.1 and other variants. As of November 13, a low percentage of Americans have received the new vaccine, and experts encourage its uptake, emphasizing its effectiveness in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death.

How to protect yourself from HV.1

Protective measures include staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccines, testing if symptomatic, isolating if testing positive, avoiding contact with sick individuals, improving ventilation, washing hands frequently, wearing masks indoors in crowded spaces, and following public health guidelines.

Correction (Nov. 27, 2023, 10:30 a.m. ET): A previous version incorrectly stated that insurance companies are still required to reimburse the cost of eight at-home COVID-19 tests monthly. When the federal emergency for the pandemic ended in May 2023, insurers were no longer required to do so, although some still reimburse the cost. Individuals are advised to check their plan for more information.

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