Omicron COVID Subvariant ‘Kraken’ XBB.1.5: Symptoms and Precautions

overview

Just as we all began to agree on the inherent risks associated with BF.7, the Omicron subvariant of SARS-CoV-2, which has seen a surge in COVID-19 cases in China, We are now facing the following problem. New Super Variant XBB.1.5. This highly contagious subspecies of Omicron, dubbed the “Kraken,” is multiplying at record rates, raising concerns about rising infections and hospitalizations.

A new highly contagious subvariant, XBB.1.5, could become the dominant variant globally in the coming months and could lead to another wave of COVID-19 infections, it is also said. .

“Kraken” XBB.1.5 was first detected in October 2022 and is now spreading more rapidly in the United States. In India, he has already reported three cases of this mutation in his Telangana, including one each in Gujarat and Maharashtra.

What is the ‘Kraken’ XBB.1.5 COVID variant?

XBB.1.5 is the offspring of subvariant XBB, a recombinant variant (fusion) of two substrains of Omicron BA.2.10.1 and BA.2.75 variants. XBB.1.5 was dubbed the Kraken, an aggressive mythical sea creature due to its aggressive contagiousness.

Kraken XBB.1.5 was first discovered in the northeastern United States. Experts say the Kraken variant is about 1.6 times more infectious than the BA.2 variant that caused the third wave in India.

Additionally, ‘Kraken’ XBB.1.5 has the highest immune evasion rate of any Omicron variant. Scientists and geneticists believe that the global spread of the XBB.1.5 supervariant is inevitable.

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Technical Advisory Group on Virus Evolution also states that “the rapidly increasing proportion of XBB.1.5 in the United States and other countries” is of urgent concern.

what are the symptoms XBB.1.5 COVID variant?

At this time, XBB.1.5 does not appear to cause symptoms that differ from other current COVID-19 strains, including:

1. sore throat
2. hoarse voice
3. cough
4. Malaise
5. diarrhea
6. heat (39°C)
7. runny or stuffy nose
8. headachemuscle pain

If you experience any of the above symptoms, you should be tested for COVID-19, receive appropriate treatment, and isolate yourself from others to prevent cluster infections.

How serious is the ‘Kraken’ variant? Will it lead to hospitalization or death?

As with any emerging variant, not many things are obvious and perceptions can change quickly. The good news, though, is that the Kraken XBB 1.5 doesn’t seem to be any more serious than his BA.5 variant. Therefore, it does not lead to a high rate of infections that can lead to serious conditions or long-lasting COVID.

However, experts agree that there is little doubt that the XBB.1.5 variant is much more contagious than its predecessors and is likely to fuel the latest wave of COVID-19. increase.

Will the vaccine work against XBB.1.5?

Experts are of the opinion that a vaccine is still the best defense against XBB.1.5. Therefore, increasing vaccination coverage is essential to minimize the impact of his COVID-19 as a public health problem. Additionally, it is important to take a booster dose for those who have already been vaccinated, especially those who are vulnerable and those over the age of 50.

What precautions can I take?

Preventative measures such as maintaining physical distancing, wearing a mask, avoiding crowded or poorly ventilated areas, washing hands or using hand sanitizer regularly, and getting immunizations or boosters. , help prevent and slow the spread of disease.

Additionally, self-quarantine and wearing a mask if unwell are also very important to check the spread of this variant.

Conclusion

A variant of Omicron, XBB.1.5, has caused concern after it spread rapidly in the United States and other countries. A new subspecies, the kraken, has also been found in some parts of India. Use masks, avoid crowds, maintain social distancing, practice respiratory hygiene, and take the government-provided COVID-19 vaccine to prevent the spread of infection from sparking new waves. All possible precautions should be taken. If you have already taken two doses, take a booster dose now.