the XBB.1.5 variant is more evasive and infectious than previous variants
Rapid Spread of Evasive XBB.1.5 COVID-19 Variant Causing Alarm in US
The XBB15 variant of COVID-19 has been causing alarm among experts in the United States, particularly epidemiologist Eric Feigl-Ding, who has warned that it is spreading rapidly in the country, particularly in the New York and New England regions.
Feigl-Ding has stated that the XBB.1.5 is more evasive and infectious than previous variants and has accused the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) of hiding data about it for weeks, even as it was causing a surge in infections. According to Feigl-Ding, data shows that the XBB.1.5 has surged to 40% in the US and is causing a surge in hospitalizations in the New York and New England regions. He also claims that multiple models show that the XBB.1.5 has a much higher transmission rate and infection rate than previous variants, spreading “faster by leaps and bounds.”
The XBB.1.5 is reportedly 120% faster than the previously fastest-spreading variant, BQ.1, and is concerning to experts due to its ability to evade immunity and its effectiveness at invading and entering human cells. Feigl-Ding has also raised concerns about the effectiveness of existing vaccines for the Omicron variant against the XBB.1.5, as it is a recombinant.
Feigl-Ding has stated that the XBB15 variant is likely of American origin and emerged in New York around October, which may explain the high number of cases in the region that have not come down like in previous waves. The expert has described the XBB15 variant as “one of the most immunity-evasive variants to date” and warns that it is causing a large number of hospitalizations wherever it is dominant.
The spread of the XBB15 variant in the US comes as COVID-19 infection rates are soaring across the country and other parts of the world, leading experts to caution against the rise of further new variants that could risk global communities. Authorities need to be transparent about the spread and impact of the XBB15 variant to properly address the threat it poses and take necessary measures to contain its spread.
XBB.1.5 COVID-19 Variant Not Causing Concern in India Due to High Vaccination Rates
Dr. M Wali, a physician at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital in New Delhi, has provided some reassurance amid a surge in COVID-19 cases in countries such as China, Japan, Hong Kong, and South Korea. He stated that the new XBB.1.5 variant of the virus is not virulent in India because 90% of the eligible population has been vaccinated, with 30-40% having received booster doses.
This is welcome news for the country, which has experienced a significant decrease in cases and deaths due to COVID-19 in recent months. The success in controlling the spread of the virus can be attributed in part to the government’s vaccination campaign, which has seen a large portion of the population receive at least one dose of a vaccine.
While the XBB.1.5 variant does not appear to be causing significant concern in India at present, authorities and individuals need to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions to prevent the spread of the virus. This includes following COVID-appropriate behavior such as wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding unnecessary travel.
Dr. Wali also highlighted the importance of immunity in combating the virus, noting that a booster dose, good immunity, previous infection, and vaccination all serve to reduce the virulence of the virus. He emphasized the need for caution and COVID-appropriate behavior, such as wearing masks and avoiding unnecessary travel, especially for older individuals and children.
In light of the evolving COVID-19 situation worldwide, particularly in certain countries, the Union Health Ministry recently made RT-PCR reports mandatory for all international travelers from China, Hong Kong, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and Thailand before departure to India, with a requirement to upload the report to the Air Suvidha portal from January 1, 2024. In addition, random tests will be conducted on 2% of all international passengers upon their arrival in India, regardless of their point of departure. The test must be conducted within 72 hours of embarking on the journey to India.
While the situation in India appears to be under control at present, authorities and individuals need to continue following guidelines and taking necessary precautions to prevent any resurgence of the virus. This includes staying informed about new variants and their potential impact on the population and being proactive in getting vaccinated when the opportunity arises.
