The Campania region is facing a surge in infections due to the Kp3 variant of Covid-19. Infectiologist Alessandro Perrella emphasizes the importance of vaccination as a crucial measure to combat the spread of the virus.
Article Key Points
Impact of the Kp3 Variant in Campania
We are in 2024 and Covid-19 continues to represent a present reality. Although the statement may seem worrying, it is important to clarify that since the moment of spillovers – the species jump that allowed the virus to infect humans – epidemiologists and infectious disease specialists had predicted that SARS-CoV-2 would continue to be a topic of discussion for many years. The pandemic has marked a difficult period, made less burdensome by the arrival of vaccines. However, the virus is still circulating, albeit at a reduced level. It is essential to continue to pay attention, especially to fragile and immunocompromised subjects.
Infection Increase and Data Analysis
The Crisis Unit established in 2020 continues to monitor epidemiological data, constantly collaborating with the regional and national hospital network. According to data provided by the Civil Protection of the Campania Region to Fanpage.it, between 3 and 17 July an increase in cases was observed, accompanied by an increase in the percentage of "first positives", i.e. the ratio between swabs carried out and positives detected.
To date, the number of Covid swabs has significantly decreased due to the lack of restrictions requiring a negative certificate. However, the trend of infections is increasing: on July 3, the percentage of positives was 3,8%, reaching 11.7% on July 17 and 14.5% on July 13. These data highlight a clear upward trend.
Analysis by Infectiologist Perrella
Alessandro Perrella, director of the Complex Operating Unit for Emerging Infectious Diseases with High Contagiousness at Aorn Ospedale dei Colli, specified that there is no reason for alarm, but that caution is necessary. According to Perrella, “the Kp3 variant belongs to the Omicron family of the SARS-CoV-2 virus. It is less pathogenic than the first variants, with generally less severe symptoms and lower mortality among frail people. The population currently benefits from hybrid immunity, the result of previous infections and vaccination.”
Symptoms and Treatment of Kp3 Variant
The symptoms of the Kp3 variant are similar to those of the flu: fever, cough, difficulty breathing, and in rare cases, loss of taste and smell. Perrella explains that “the duration of symptoms is comparable to that of other respiratory infections, making it difficult to distinguish Covid-19 without a swab.” Treatment varies based on the severity of the symptoms and the patient’s condition. In the most severe cases, especially among older adults or people with pre-existing conditions, a specific antiviral treatment is available. For most people, rest and anti-inflammatories are sufficient.
Prevention and Vaccination
To prevent infection with the Kp3 variant, it is essential to maintain hygiene measures such as frequent hand washing, wearing masks in risk environments and avoiding close contact with infected people. Those who are frail or live with frail people should take a swab if they have symptoms. Vaccination remains a crucial tool. Frail people should get vaccinated with the updated vaccine during the next vaccination campaign, while for the ultra-frail, vaccination is recommended immediately. Taking preventive measures and following vaccination recommendations can help reduce the risk of infection and protect the most vulnerable people.
Article published on 17 July 2024 - 16:27
