New COVID Variant KP.3 Becomes Dominant in the U.S., Accounting for 25% of Cases

Jun 10, 2024, 05:11 AM

A new COVID-19 variant, KP.3, is rapidly becoming the dominant strain in the United States, now accounting for 25% of cases. This variant has outpaced the previously dominant JN.1 variant, which now makes up 22.5% of cases. KP.3 is noted for its high immune evasion capabilities and has been particularly impactful in regions like Hawaii, where COVID-19 cases are rising, according to Hawaii News Now. Despite the emergence of KP.3, the FDA has decided to proceed with a JN.1 vaccine, although companies have indicated readiness with a KP.2 vaccine. Virological studies show that KP.3 has a relative effective reproduction number greater than 1.2 times that of JN.1, indicating its higher transmissibility. Other variants such as KP.2.3 and LB.1 are also being monitored.