Several new omicron sub-variants, including BA.4.6, BF.7, BQ.1, and BQ.1.1, have been detected in the United States. BQ.1 and BQ.1.1 are spreading the fastest. The severity of disease caused by these sub-variants and how well they escape the body’s immune system is still unclear.

New versions of the Omicron variant, known as sub-variants are now spreading in the US and globally. Cases in Europe are rising, and these new subvariants are making up a growing number of the cases. While the US has not yet experienced the increase in cases that Europe is experiencing, these subvariants are contributing to cases in the US.

Many of the new sub-variants, especially BQ.1. and BQ.1.1., seem to spread faster than the original Omicron variant (also known as BA.1 and BA.1.1). There is little information about whether they cause more severe disease and hospitalization than the initial Omicron variant.

There is evidence that full vaccination with the new Omicron (bivalent) booster protects against severe outcomes of the new variant, such as hospitalization and death. The Food and Drug Administration has authorized the new Omicron (bivalent) booster for people 5 and older to provide an extra layer of protection against a possible rise in infections.

Research is ongoing to know the extent of vaccine protection against the new subvariants. Antibodies from an Omicron (bivalent) booster may help counter the new sub-variants because these sub-variants come from the Omicron sub-variants used to make the booster. However, the new sub-variants have some new mutations and protection can depend on an individual’s vaccination and COVID-19 infection history.