The strain, officially called BA.2.86, also known as Pirola, was detected sporadically in August and might be a factor in the recent noticeable increase in contagions, the European Center for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) pointed out in a press release, which was quoted by local television.
Healthcare workers urged to redouble Covid-19 vaccination efforts, especially for people at risk of serious illnesses, as the fall and winter approach in the continent.
No evidence Covid-19 emerging variants are associated with a more severe disease or a reduction of vaccine effectiveness, ECDC Director Andrea Ammon stated.
jg/iff/jha/amp
