Meet XBB.1.5 - New COVID Variant

Recall Omicron? The seemingly invincible, mildly symptomatic relative of COVID-19 that commanded attention and plagued our nasal passages? Well, it appears that Omicron may be facing some familial contention. Enter XBB.1.5 , the nascent subvariant, garnering widespread interest from not only scientists but also individuals within our communities.

Consider XBB.1.5 as Omicron 2.0, an enhanced variant with extraordinary transmissibility capabilities. Research indicates that it surpasses its predecessor in contagiousness, rapidly disseminating through festive gatherings and intimate winter embraces. Within a brief span, it has ascended to the status of the prevailing COVID strain in the United States, particularly in the Northeast region, thereby provoking speculation: ought we to revive our utilization of protective suits?

Before hastily resorting to bubble wrap, let us collect ourselves and examine what is truly known regarding XBB.1.5. The positive news? Although it skillfully evades our immune defenses, it does not seem to be more severe than previous variants. The majority of symptoms remain consistent with those observed in previous Omicron variants – including a sore throat, nasal congestion, and perhaps a cough.

Hence, while XBB.1.5 exhibits increased transmissibility, it does not necessarily pose a heightened peril. This realization is undoubtedly reassuring, yet it does not warrant celebration. This surge in cases continues to exert strain on healthcare facilities and workers, and candidly, who desires to endure a period of isolation during their winter respite, accompanied solely by a box of tissues?

What measures can be taken to address this? Employing the same playbook, albeit with modernized strategies:

1. Vaccination and Boosters: They remain the foremost players! Albeit XBB.1.5 may partially evade certain immune defenses, research demonstrates that vaccines and booster doses considerably diminish the likelihood of severe illness and hospitalization. If you have not yet received your immunizations or booster shots, this represents your primary line of defense.

2. Mask Up: Recall those reliable face coverings? They have returned to the forefront. Mask mandates have experienced a resurgence in certain regions, and even if they are not officially mandated, donning a mask within crowded or inadequately ventilated spaces may be beneficial. Regard it as a superhero cape for your respiratory passages.

3. Remain at Home if Unwell: This timeless counsel never wanes in relevance. Experiencing malaise? Refrain from spreading contagion! Remain at home, allow for recuperation, and shield your loved ones by limiting contact. It may be worthwhile to consider testing in order to ascertain that XBB.1.5 is not infiltrating your social gathering.

4. Thoroughly Cleanse Your Hands (and Other Surfaces): This hygiene mantra never loses its potency. Regular handwashing and diligent disinfection of surfaces can contribute to breaking the chain of transmission. Think of it as a soapy antidote for troublesome viruses.

5. Do not allow XBB.1.5 to overwhelm your newsfeed: instead, stay informed without becoming obsessed. Remain vigilant of trustworthy sources for updates while avoiding an excessive amount of information. It is important to recall that possessing a moderate amount of knowledge can be advantageous, while an excessive amount can result in needless anxiety.

XBB.1.5 has the potential to become the emerging phenomenon in the realm of COVID-19. However, we have encountered many obstacles in the past. By exercising caution, employing rationality, and embracing immune-boosting substances, we can effectively navigate through this surge in the winter season and effectively control the proliferation of this subvariant. Inhale deeply and bear in mind that we are experiencing this situation together. Let us foster anticipation for a spring season that is as radiant as it is devoid of viral contamination.

Written by Peter Odutola MD.

Edited by Saranyah Kannuchamy.

References:

1. Parums DV. Editorial: The XBB.1.5 ('Kraken') Subvariant of Omicron SARS-CoV-2 and its Rapid Global Spread. Med Sci Monit. 2023 Feb 1;29:e939580. doi: 10.12659/MSM.939580. PMID: 36722047; PMCID: PMC9901170.

2. Vogel L. What to know about Omicron XBB.1.5. CMAJ. 2023 Jan 23;195(3):E127-E128. doi: 10.1503/cmaj.1096034. PMID: 36690363; PMCID: PMC9876584.

3. Omicron XBB.1.5 is the 'most transmissible' subvariant yet. Here's what we know: https://www.today.com/health/coronavirus/omicron-variant-xbb15-rcna64352

4. Health Experts Warily Eye XBB.1.5, the Latest Omicron Subvariant https://www.nytimes.com/2023/01/07/science/covid-omicron-variants-xbb.html