In a recent development, researchers and scientists at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) have discovered two new variants of COVID-19 in wastewater samples collected across the Las Vegas valley. These variants, referred to as FLIRT, have been given this nickname due to their unique mutations.

The detection of these new variants has raised concerns among residents, including Las Vegas local Monica Myers. As someone of a certain age, Myers expressed her hopes that the FLIRT variant will not have a significant impact on the community. Dr. Edwin Oh, who leads UNLV's wastewater testing programs, revealed that his team was among the first in the country to identify these variants in late March.

Dr. Oh explained that the FLIRT variants, specifically KP.2 and KP.1.1, are part of the Omicron strain of COVID-19. While they have been detected in the Las Vegas valley, Dr. Oh reassures the public that there is no immediate cause for alarm. He noted that the amount of virus present in the wastewater samples has significantly decreased compared to when the Omicron variant first emerged.

UNLV researchers continue to collect samples from 20 to 30 different locations throughout the valley, from Moapa to Boulder City. This ongoing surveillance allows them to closely monitor the evolving threat of COVID-19 variants and take necessary actions to mitigate their impact.

The discovery of these new variants comes as a surprise to some, like Felicia Jackson, who expressed concern about the enduring presence of COVID-19 in the community. She acknowledged that the situation raises alarm bells and lamented the unfortunate reality that the virus continues to affect families even years later.

UNLV's research plays a vital role in helping Nevada better understand and track COVID-19 variants. By analyzing wastewater samples from various locations, scientists can gain valuable insights into the presence and evolution of the virus in the community.

As the battle against COVID-19 continues, the findings from UNLV researchers serve as a reminder of the importance of ongoing surveillance and vigilance in managing the threat of the virus.