What is Omicron’s XBB.1.5 Sub-variant?

Covid-19 has again made it to the headlines as the spread of a new variant of Omicron XBB.1.5 has been alarming in many countries including India. The cases are continuously increasing every day. The infection is spreading even among the people who have been vaccinated. XBB.1.5 is an upgraded version of XBB, a recombinant sub-lineage of Omicron that was found a few months ago in various countries including India, according to Dr. Rajeev Jayadevan, Co-chairman of the National IMA Covid force.

“XBB.1.5 has a greater ability to attach itself to the human ACE-2 receptor while retaining the outstanding immune evasiveness of its ancestor,” he said.

Dr. Jayadevan explains that this variant is capable of infecting those who were previously infected or even vaccinated.

“Immune evasiveness is the ability of the virus to infect people who had prior infection or vaccination or both. XBB.1.5 achieved this by creating a rare type of mutation called F486P, located in its RBD (receptor binding domain). It is not known whether it causes more severe diseases. Experts believe it is unlikely to do so,” the expert said.

“The latest genomic surveillance data from India show XBB accounts for 20 per cent, while the older variant BA.2.75 is still dominant. This landscape could change,” he said.

Considering the situation in India, we need not fear but we should be cautious. Constant precautions are mandatory. Wearing mask in public places, avoiding going in crowded places, using sanitisers and washing hands regularly, drinking warm beverages will protect you from the infection.