Scientists are closely monitoring the arrival of a new COVID-19 type that could lead to more cases this summer, even though the virus is still becoming less common in the US overall.

There is a good chance that the new strain, KP.2, will replace the old strain, JN.1. JN.1 was highly contagious, but most of the time it caused milder illnesses, and immunisations and previous infections helped guard against it.

However, two changes to KP.2's spike protein, which could alter its behaviour and ability to evade immune systems, have alarmed researchers.

Early research shows that KP.2 could spread like JN.1, but it could also get around medicines and past attacks.

If one has a COVID illness that doesn't go away, they will have fever, cough, tiredness, and loss of smell or taste. If you have these symptoms, you should see a doctor, even if you have been vaccinated or already have COVID.

The best way to stay safe from COVID-19 is to still get a vaccine. Children ages 5 to 64 should only get one shot of the new vaccine, according to the CDC. People aged 65 and up should get two shots. People whose immune systems aren't as strong should talk to doctors to get personalised help.

The CDC has made it easier to keep COVID patients away from other people, but you should still wash your hands often and stay home when you are sick to stop the virus from spreading.

As things change, people who want to fight COVID-19 and its versions will need to keep learning and doing what the government says about health.