Variants of SARS-CoV-2
BA.2.86, or Pirola, is a variant. It has been known to media since August 2023. Research has not shown (as of 2023's third quarter) if this variant can possibly be more dangerous than other variants that are in circulation (or spreading infection from some people to more people). The variant has been found in Asia, Africa, North America, Europe, and the Middle East. It has "dozens of genetic changes". Related page: mutation.