COVID-19: BA.2.86 variant symptoms (Pirola)

• The COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 is also called Pirola.
• The Pirola variant is a mutated descendant of Omicron and causes similar symptoms.
• The BA.2.86 COVID-19 variant can partially evade the immunity built up by vaccination and earlier infections with other strains of the coronavirus.

The BA.2.86 COVID-19 variant, also known as Pirola, is being monitored by the World Health Organization due to its mutations, which allow it to partially evade the immunity built up against the virus. The Pirola variant can cause symptoms similar to those of other strains of the coronavirus, and is highly transmissible. This article will guide you through everything about the Pirola variant, from its characteristics to the diagnosis and possible treatment. 

The COVID-19 variant BA.2.86, or the Pirola variant, is a mutated coronavirus from the Omicron lineage. The Pirola variant is currently classified as a variant of interest by the World Health Organization (WHO), which means that it meets the following conditions: 1

• It has genetic changes that are expected or proven to impact virus characteristics, including but not limited to transmissibility, virulence, susceptibility to therapeutics, antibody evasion, and detectability.
• It’s identified to have a competitive edge over other currently circulating variants in at least 2 WHO regions.
• Its prevalence has increased significantly over time, and its apparent epidemiological impacts indicate an emerging risk to global public health.

The Pirola variant was first noted by the WHO on July 24, 2023, in Israel and Denmark, after which it rapidly spread to other countries. The BA.2.86 variant has a large number of mutations. Overall, the WHO concluded that the Pirola variant has the following characteristics: 2

• A low level of risk for growth advantage, as there are other variants circulating as well with equal abilities to grow. This slows the virus down from becoming a dominant variant.
• A moderate level of risk for antibody escape, meaning that the mutations in the Pirola variant enable it to partially evade the immunity built up by vaccination and previous infections with other coronavirus strains. 
• A low level of risk for severe disease compared to other variants. 

Currently, the Pirola variant is circulating at relatively low levels. One of its descendants, JN.1, is one of the more dominant variants of the coronavirus in May 2024. 

BA.2.86 COVID-19 variant symptoms are very similar to the symptoms of other variants of the coronavirus that descend from the Omicron lineage. These symptoms generally appear between 2 to 14 days after exposure to the virus and can be mild to severe in nature. The Pirola variant is highly transmissible, which means it’s very likely to spread quickly from one person to another, which is why it may pose a threat to healthcare providers. Some of the most common Pirola variant symptoms may include: 3 4

• Fever or chills
• A dry, non-productive cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headaches
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose

Existing tests can detect the COVID-19 virus, including the BA.2.86 variant. However, not all tests can differentiate between the variants. To accurately determine the variant of COVID-19, you must undergo a laboratory test that identifies the virus's genetic sequence. This is usually a PCR or sequencing test and requires a sample of respiratory material from a nasal or throat swab. The sample is sent to a laboratory, where technicians conduct the necessary tests to identify the virus’s genetic sequence and determine the specific variant of COVID-19 present. These variant differentiation tests are not routinely done. Instead, they only provide valuable information for public health officials to monitor the spread of different variants. 5

Pirola variant symptoms can resemble the symptoms of flu or allergies. In case you’re unsure what’s causing your symptoms, it’s always recommended to get tested. This way, you can get the appropriate treatment and prevent the spread of the virus to others.   

The treatment for the COVID-19 Pirola variant is quite similar to the treatment of other variants of COVID-19. If you are at a higher risk of severe illness from COVID-19, then you may be eligible for antiviral treatment. This treatment can help decrease the possibility of hospitalization or death, as antiviral medication will help lower the amount of virus in your body while your immune system is fighting off the infection. It’s vital that this medication is taken as soon as possible, so it’s essential to contact your doctor immediately if you’re at high risk and start noticing symptoms. Your risk profile is determined by: 6

• Your vaccination status, if you’re not fully vaccinated
• Age, if you’re 50 years or older
• Whether you’re being treated with chemotherapy or immunosuppressive therapy
• Your underlying health conditions such as cardiovascular disease, immune deficiencies and chronic conditions of the lungs such as COPD and asthma
• Smoking
• High blood pressure
• Obesity
• Pregnancy 

Most people aren’t at risk for severe illness and only need home remedies for COVID-19. These home remedies focus on relieving the symptoms that the virus causes while your immune system is fighting off the infection.  

You can treat your Pirola variant symptoms with painkillers and supportive such as: 7 8

• Paracetamol
• Ibuprofen
• Naproxen
• Resting as much as possible
• Drinking plenty of water
• Taking Paracetamol or Ibuprofen to help lower your temperature 
• Sitting upright instead of lying on your back
• Contacting your healthcare provider about possible cough medication or treatment

For most people, these home remedies for COVID-19 will help you find relief while your immune system is overcoming the infection. It’s, however, essential to monitor your symptoms and to contact your doctor if: 8

• You’re gradually feeling worse
• You have difficulty breathing when standing upright
• You feel very weak, and basic tasks feel too difficult
• You’re shaking or shivering
• You still feel unwell after a month

Q: Is there a vaccine for Pirola? 
A: COVID-19 vaccination is still effective, as the repeat vaccines have been adjusted to the properties of the mutating viruses. However, it's crucial to keep your vaccination up to date. 

Q: What are the COVID-19 variant BA.2.86 symptoms like? 
A: The COVID-19 BA.2.86 symptoms are similar to the symptoms of other strains of Omicron. Pirola symptoms mainly include headache, cough, sore throat, runny or congested nose, fatigue, muscle aches, and fever.

Q: What is the Pirola variant? 
A: The Pirola variant is a variant of the coronavirus that descended from the Omicron lineage. It’s a variant of interest monitored by the WHO to assess its impact on public health services.  

Q: Is Pirola more infectious? 
A: Pirola is very infectious and transmits at a high rate. Therefore, it is essential to take preventative measures and avoid coming into contact with others if you've been infected.