COVID-19: BA.2.86 variant symptoms (Pirola)

BA.2.86 (Pirola) is a variant of concern due to its high number of mutations. It is a descendant of the Omicron variant and has been shown to be more transmissible.

Symptoms are similar to Omicron, including sore throat, runny nose, cough, headache, and fatigue.

This variant is a result of further evolution of the Omicron strain, with changes in the spike protein.

Treatment is supportive care and antivirals for high-risk patients.

As with other variants, seek care for severe symptoms or if you are high-risk.