FLiRT COVID variant in Australia: What you need to know

This blog is for educational purposes only and does not replace professional medical advice or diagnosis. If you have health concerns, consult an AHPRA-registered telehealth doctor or request a medical certificate online if clinically appropriate. Please note: Hola Health does not currently offer Mental Health Care Plans.

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If you’ve been scrolling through the news or overheard snippets of conversation at your favourite café, chances are you’ve caught wind of the latest COVID-19 buzzword: the FLiRT variant. Yes, COVID is still very much a part of our lives in Australia, even if it feels like the world has largely moved on. The truth is that the virus is still among us, so let’s take a look into what the FLiRT variant is, what makes it different, and how you can keep yourself and your loved ones protected.

Is COVID still a thing in Australia?

Short answer: absolutely. While the days of strict lockdowns and social distancing may feel like a distant memory, COVID-19 continues to circulate across Australia. Think of it like that one houseguest who just won’t leave—only this one occasionally redecorates in the form of new variants like FLiRT. The good news? Hospitalisations and severe cases remain significantly lower than the pandemic’s peak, thanks to vaccines and improved treatments. However, COVID is still a public health concern, particularly for those in high-risk groups. Staying informed and cautious are the keys to navigating this new phase.

What is the FLiRT variant?

The FLiRT variant is the latest member of the Omicron family, which has dominated the COVID-19 landscape for the past couple of years. Like its Omicron cousins, FLiRT has mutations that make it more transmissible. While the name might sound playful, it’s derived from the technical names spike protein mutations. The upside? FLiRT doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness than earlier Omicron strains. The downside? Its ability to spread like wildfire means we could see spikes in cases, particularly in crowded indoor settings or during cooler months when we naturally spend more time inside.

What are the symptoms of the FLiRT variant?

If you’ve tangled with COVID before, the symptoms of FLiRT will feel all too familiar. They typically include:

• Sore throat
• Runny or stuffy nose
• Cough
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Muscle aches
• Fever or chills

Some people might also experience gastrointestinal issues like nausea or diarrhoea. The severity can vary widely, from a mild cold to a few days of full-blown flu-like misery. If you’re feeling under the weather, consider taking a COVID test—especially if you’ve been in contact with someone who tested positive.

How can you stay protected?

  Protecting yourself from the FLiRT variant doesn’t require reinventing the wheel. Here are the tried-and-true strategies to keep in your toolkit:

1. Get vaccinated and boosted

Vaccines are your best defense against severe illness. Even if you’ve been vaccinated before, boosters can help refresh your immunity—important given FLiRT’s ability to dodge past defenses to some extent. Check your eligibility for a booster and book an appointment today.

2. Practice good hygiene

Remember the basics: wash your hands regularly, cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and avoid touching your face. These small habits make a big difference.

3. Wear a mask in crowded spaces

Packed trains, concerts, or healthcare visits? Pop on a mask. It’s a simple but effective way to reduce transmission, especially during flu season or when case numbers spike.

4. Stay home if you’re sick

This one should be a no-brainer by now. If you’re feeling unwell, do yourself and everyone else a favour by staying home until you’re better.

Does vaccination help against FLiRT?

In a word: yes. While FLiRT has mutations that make it a little better at sidestepping immunity, vaccines remain a powerful tool for reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalisation, and death. Think of it like a seatbelt. It doesn’t guarantee you’ll never be in an accident, but it dramatically reduces the likelihood of serious harm. If you’re overdue for a booster, consider this your sign to schedule that appointment.

Isolation guidelines in Australia

If you test positive for COVID-19, Australian guidelines recommend isolating at home until your symptoms resolve. For most people, this means staying home for at least five days, though longer isolation might be needed if symptoms persist. Avoid contact with high-risk individuals, like elderly relatives, for at least seven days after testing positive. And don’t forget to notify close contacts so they can take precautions. Also read: How long does COVID-19 last and what to expect?

When should you consult a doctor?

Most cases of COVID-19, including those caused by the FLiRT variant, can be managed at home with rest, fluids, and over-the-counter medications like paracetamol. However, some symptoms are red flags that warrant medical attention. Call your doctor if you experience:

• Difficulty breathing or shortness of breath
• Chest pain or pressure
• Confusion or difficulty staying awake
• A persistent high fever that doesn’t improve with medication

If you’re in a high-risk group, such as being over 65, pregnant, or living with a chronic health condition, it’s a good idea to consult your doctor as soon as you test positive. They might recommend antiviral treatments to help prevent severe illness.

Getting oral antiviral treatments: A game-changer

For those at higher risk of severe COVID-19, antiviral medications like Paxlovid are a lifesaver. These oral treatments work by preventing the virus from replicating in your body, reducing the likelihood of severe outcomes. If you’re eligible, it’s crucial to start treatment within the first five days of symptoms, so don’t delay in reaching out to your doctor. Please note: Hola Health does not provide COVID-19 consultations or prescribe COVID-19 antiviral medications. If you have COVID-19 concerns or would like to discuss antiviral eligibility, please see your local GP or visit a healthcare provider in person. If your symptoms are severe — including difficulty breathing, chest pain, or confusion — call 000 or go to your nearest Emergency Department immediately.

Final thoughts

The emergence of the FLiRT variant is a reminder that while we’ve made incredible strides in the fight against COVID-19, the journey isn’t over. Staying informed, getting vaccinated, and taking simple precautions can help us live alongside the virus without letting it dominate our lives. So, the next time you hear someone mention FLiRT, don’t panic. Instead, take it as a cue to double-check your vaccination status, brush up on hygiene habits, and stay cautious in crowded settings. Together, we’ve come a long way since the start of the pandemic, and with a little care, we’ll keep moving forward.