New COVID-19 variant BA.2.86, dubbed Pirola, may be less contagious and less immune-evasive than feared, according to US lab tests. The human immune system effectively fights off Pirola, especially in those recently infected with the XBB subvariant. However, variant FL.1.5.1 raises concerns with its immune-evasive properties. While promising, vigilance remains crucial, as the Omicron wave demonstrated the virus's agility and our defense fragility.