Centaurus: The most resistant Omicron sub-variant to date

Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, health officials have warned that the biggest barrier to controlling the virus would be its ability to mutate into ever more infectious and dangerous forms. 

As new COVID variants and sub-variants continue to emerge, there are still many reasons to be cautious this season. Here’s what you need to know about the newest COVID variant called Centaurus. What we know so far is that the BA.2.75.2 sub-variant (Centaurus) is the ‘most resistant‘ variant to date. Officials are concerned that this sub-variant will lead the U.S. to gear up for another COVID winter wave.

What is the “Centaurus” Omicron sub-variant

The latest version raising alarms is already gaining the ability to evade the immunity provided by current vaccines and can’t be neutralized by many of the antiviral drug treatments available. So far, the strain has been reported in 47 countries and in 39 U.S. states, where it still accounts for less than 1% of COVID-19 cases.

It’s too soon to say whether any of the newer variants will rise to prominence in the ways Omicron and Delta did. None have been documented in significant numbers in California or the nation. Still, experts say another super-spreading sub-variant – combined with more people being indoors when the weather gets cold – could bring new challenges.

Where did BA.2.75.2 come from?

BA.2.75.2, as its nomenclature suggests, emerged from the BA.2.75 subvariant. It’s growing quickly, particularly in India—although BA.2.75.2 accounts for only 0.5% of cases so far around the world.

Because it shares many similarities with the existing subvariant, the World Health Organization has not designated BA.2.75.2 as a new variant but singled it out as an “Omicron sub-variant under monitoring,” which means that health officials should prioritize tracking cases in order to hopefully prevent surges in infections. Some experts have unofficially started calling it Centaurus, after a Twitter user gave it that nickname.

Where to get COVID-19 treatment 

COVID surges are expected to develop across the United States, let’s not forget to take care of ourselves and those we love.

Taking action at the first sign is the best defense to minimize the risk of potential infections during the fall/winter months. Get tested! Stay mindful of following the standard recommended precautions when interacting with the public.

Tested positive for COVID-19? We’re here to help you get the COVID treatment that is right for you.