XBB.1.16 COVID Variant: A new variant may be driving the new rise in cases in India. There is a mini guide to know everything about this latest mutation of COVID-19.
XBB.1.16 COVID variant: Since the COVID-19 pandemic dawned on the world, it seems to be endless. Some experts believe this has become the new normal and is also on its way to becoming as simple as another flu. The world is still breathing through the side effects of COVID-19 in terms of health and finances. Recently, almost all countries had lifted restrictions and the world was finally accepting the tangible reality when another new mutation of COVID-19 hit the news. India is witnessing a rise in COVID-19 cases. This time it seems to be powered by an Omircron variant, XBB.1.16. With the H3N2 flu also infecting people, several questions are likely to remain unclear. Don’t worry, here’s a 101 guide to understanding everything about the latest COVID-19 mutation: XBB.1.16.
What is the XBB.1.16 variant?
XBB.1.16 is a sub-variant of Omicron. It is a recombination of two omicron variants. Omicron and its variants are usually more easily transmitted and have a better chance of escaping immunity. There is still limited data on its infection route and how serious it can be, since it emerged only recently.
XBB.1.16 Symptoms
Based on the data collected so far, there have not been any serious symptoms of this latent mutation. Like other variants of COVID-19, it also has the following:
- prolonged fever
- runny and stuffy nose
- Sore throat
- Headache
- body fatigue
- Muscle pain
Typically, these symptoms tend to last around four to five days.
XBB.1.16: Who is most at risk?
COVID-19 is a respiratory disease that affects the lungs. The following people are most at risk of contracting the virus
- old people
- People with underlying comorbidities
- Children as their immunity is still building
- Pregnant women
Precautions:
The COVID protocol remains pretty much the same;
- Start wearing masks again, especially in public spaces
- Avoid crowded areas
- Keep hand sanitizer on all the time
- Maintain good hand hygiene
- If you are not already vaccinated, get the necessary vaccinations
XBB.1.16: Should we worry? The experts speak
Dr Richa Sareen, consultant pulmonology at Fortis hospital here, said: “I feel like the rise in covid cases is being led by the new variant. But XBB.1.16 is an Omicron variant, so there shouldn’t be much to worry about, as most people have developed antibodies over time, especially after the last Omicron-driven wave,” she said.
However, caution is needed and people should wear masks in crowded places, he said, adding that people who are immunocompromised or have comorbidities should be very careful.
Former AIIMS director Dr. Randeep Guleria said Wednesday that the XBB.1.16 variant could be driving the recent rise, but stressed there was no need to panic as long as it doesn’t cause serious illness and death.
Put on a mask, stay hydrated and stay safe!
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