CDC: KP.3.1.1 COVID-19 Variant Now Dominant in US

As per the CDC, the KP.3.1.1 variant is the dominant strain, accounting for 27.8% of infections. The previous dominant strain, KP.3, now accounts for 20.1%.

"The KP.3.1.1 variant is very similar to other circulating variants. All current lineages are descendants of JN.1," said Rosa Norman, CDC spokesperson.

Norman also noted that COVID-19 treatments and vaccines are expected to remain effective against all variants.

Varients Compared

KP.3.1.1 is a sub-lineage of KP.3, differing by a single change in the spike protein. Symptoms of both variants are similar and there are no known unique symptoms for either.

Regional Breakdown

As of July 30, COVID-19 infections are rising in 35 states/territories. CDC data highlights that Region 4, comprising eight Southeast states, saw the largest increase in cases, up 7.2%.

Protection Recommendations

The CDC recommends the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for everyone aged 6 months and older. The elderly and immunocompromised are encouraged to get vaccinated for added protection.

Full article and data: USA TODAY