The newest strains of COVID-19 are known as the FLiRT variations and immunologists said they are not making people sicker than prior strains, but are still highly transmissible.

Dr. Thomas Russo, professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo, said we are in the best shape we have ever been since the pandemic first started back in 2020.

Hospitalizations and deaths remain at an all-time low, but those who are immunocompromised should still take precautions, especially as the weather warms in New York state.

“It’s hot. People move indoors for air conditioning. We’re not wearing masks anymore,” said Russo. “In those crowded settings is where the virus spreads best.” 

He said as the virus mutates and fewer people get sick, it is proof of the effectiveness of vaccines.

“Our vaccines are extraordinarily good and minimize the likelihood of developing severe disease, hospitalizations and bad outcomes,” Russo said. “At the end of the day, if we could convert a potentially lethal virus into the common cold, I would put that in the win column for us.”

According to Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Health, the newer strains have not been tested yet with the vaccines designed for older variants.

It is believed there could be some protection, but immunity may be waning for people who have not received a booster in several months.