**What are the new COVID-19 subvariants?**
The new COVID-19 subvariants are Omicron sublineages BA.4 and BA.5. They were first identified in South Africa in January 2022 and have since spread to over 50 countries.
**How are the new subvariants different from previous variants?**
BA.4 and BA.5 have several mutations that make them more transmissible and able to evade immunity from previous infection or vaccination. They are also more likely to cause reinfection in people who have already had COVID-19.
**What are the symptoms of the new subvariants?**
The symptoms of BA.4 and BA.5 are similar to those of previous COVID-19 variants, including:
* Fever or chills
* Cough
* Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
* Fatigue
* Muscle or body aches
* Headache
* New loss of taste or smell
* Sore throat
* Congestion or runny nose
* Nausea or vomiting
* Diarrhea
**How are the new subvariants treated?**
There are no specific treatments for BA.4 and BA.5. Treatment is supportive and may include:
* Rest
* Fluids
* Over-the-counter pain relievers
* Cough suppressants
* Antiviral medications may be prescribed for people who are at high risk of severe illness.
**What can I do to protect myself from the new subvariants?**
The best way to protect yourself from BA.4 and BA.5 is to get vaccinated and boosted. Vaccines are highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. Other ways to protect yourself include:
* Wearing a mask in indoor public settings
* Avoiding crowds
* Social distancing
* Washing your hands frequently
* Staying home if you are sick
**Is there anything else I need to know about the new subvariants?**
BA.4 and BA.5 are more transmissible and able to evade immunity than previous variants. However, they do not appear to cause more severe illness. Vaccines are still highly effective at preventing severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19. If you have any questions or concerns about the new subvariants, please talk to your doctor.
**Additional resources:**
[Centers for Disease Control and Prevention: COVID-19](https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/index.html)
[World Health Organization: COVID-19](https://www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019)
[National Institutes of Health: COVID-19](https://www.nih.gov/health-information/coronavirus).
