what covid variant is going around

As of September 2023, there are several COVID-19 variants that are circulating globally. The EG.5 variant is currently estimated to be the dominant strain in the United States, making up the largest share of new cases of COVID-19 compared to other variants. FL.1.5.1 and XBB.1.16.6 are also circulating in the US, with FL.1.5.1 being the second most common variant. Eris, a descendant of Omicron, is another variant that is already the dominant coronavirus subvariant in the country, infecting more people than any other single strain. Additionally, there is a new highly mutated strain of the virus that causes COVID-19 called BA.2.86, which has been detected in at least four states. It is important to note that new variants are an expected part of the evolution of viruses, and monitoring each one that surfaces is essential in ensuring preparedness in the US and globally.