The CDC has identified a new family of highly transmissible COVID-19 variants called FLiRT, with strains KP.2 and KP.1.1 becoming increasingly common, especially in Chicago.

These FLiRT variants, evolved from the JN.1 strain, may prompt a surge in infections this summer due to changes in the spike protein.

Despite the rise of new variants, current COVID hospitalization and death rates are declining in Chicago and across the U.S.

Vaccination rates remain suboptimal, particularly among the elderly, even as health officials emphasize the importance of vaccination amid waning immunity from past infections and vaccinations.

The CDC advises Americans 65 and older to get an updated vaccine and underscores the need for persistent monitoring and public health strategies to combat these new variants.

Symptoms of the FLiRT variants are similar to other COVID-19 strains, including fever, cough, sore throat, and respiratory issues.