New Corona variants: are they really dangerous?

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The number of coronavirus cases is rising significantly in Austria, particularly due to the new variants KP.3 and KP.3.1.1. Experts expect another wave this autumn, but it will start earlier than usual. How widespread is Covid at the moment? What do we know about the new variants? Should you wear a mask again and get vaccinated? Here are the most important questions and answers:

How widespread is the coronavirus in Austria at the moment?
The rising infection figures are reflected in wastewater monitoring. Samples from 48 wastewater treatment plants, which cover around 60 percent of the Austrian population, have continuously increased Sars-CoV-2 contamination since the beginning of July. Vienna is most affected, followed by Carinthia and Tyrol. Burgenland currently has the fewest cases.

A new coronavirus variant is currently on the rise again and is spreading around the world. But the virus is still leaving some people unaffected. Why some people are not infected is still a mystery. Researchers are now on the trail of this phenomenon.
Which variants are circulating?
The main reason for the rising number of cases are new variants of Sars-CoV-2, in particular KP.3 and KP.2, with the KP.3.1.1 subline as the dominant variant. Around two thirds of current infections are attributed to these. Both variants belong to the group of FLiRT variants, which are derived from the JN.1 variant that dominated in Austria last winter. Studies by Japanese scientists indicate that these variants are significantly more contagious than earlier ones.

The new XEC variant is also currently being mentioned in the media and could soon spread in Europe, according to experts.

What symptoms do the current variants cause?
The symptoms of KP.3.1.1 and XEC are similar to those of previous corona variants. Those affected report:

Fever
a cold
cough
Sore throat
headache
aching limbs
Loss of sense of taste and smell
KP.3.1.1. is considered more contagious, but does not necessarily lead to more severe courses.

Should I wear a mask again?
Anyone who wants to protect themselves or others from infection in public spaces such as trains, stores or doctors’ surgeries is well advised to wear an FFP2 mask. However, for the mask to really protect against the virus, it is important that it fits properly and seals tightly.

Should I get vaccinated?
As in the previous year, vaccination is recommended for people aged 12 and over, especially people aged 60 and over and healthcare workers who are at increased risk of severe cases. Infants and children aged six months and over can also be vaccinated on request. Unvaccinated people are sufficiently protected with a vaccination against the new variants.

Experts advise everyone to get a booster vaccination before the fall—it’s not just about personal protection, but also about solidarity and consideration for others. People from risk groups or with a weak immune system should get vaccinated in good time to prevent infection during the autumn wave. Whether a vaccination is advisable should be discussed individually with your family doctor. Vaccination is free again this year.