A new covid-19 subvariant, XBB.1.5, is now the dominant cause of infections in the US. It is estimated to account for 40 per cent of cases in the US and up to 75 per cent in the North East, and is doubling in proportion every week. XBB.1.5 shares genetic material with other omicron subvariants, but has some advantageous characteristics that may enable it to more effectively bind to and infect human cells.
Preliminary studies have found that XBB.1.5 is more effective at evading immunity than other variants, due to changes in its spike protein. However, individuals who have received two or more vaccines remain less likely to become seriously ill or die from covid-19 than those with fewer shots, despite the presence of the new variant. Bivalent boosters are available in some countries, and are able to target subvariants that more closely resemble XBB.1.5, offering better protection.
Although XBB.1.5 is highly transmissible and has some improved abilities, many treatments for covid-19, including antiviral medications, remain effective against it. Masking and improving indoor air ventilation are also able to slow the spread of XBB.1.5, and there is no evidence that it causes more serious illness.
A new covid-19 subvariant, XBB.1.5, is now the dominant cause of infections in the US. XBB.1.5 is estimated to account for 40 per cent of cases in the US and up to 75 per cent in the North East, and is doubling in proportion every week. It is believed to have some advantageous characteristics that may enable it to more effectively bind to and infect human cells.
Studies have found that XBB.1.5 is more effective at evading immunity than other variants, due to changes in its spike protein. However, individuals who have received two or more vaccines remain less likely to become seriously ill or die from covid-19 than those with fewer shots. Bivalent boosters are available in some countries and are able to better protect against XBB.1.5.
Treatments for covid-19, including antiviral medications, remain effective against XBB.1.5. Masking and improving indoor air ventilation are also able to slow the spread of XBB.1.5, and there is no evidence that it causes more serious illness.
In summary, the US is currently experiencing an increase in cases related to XBB.1.5, a covid-19 subvariant that is believed to be more effective at evading immunity than other variants. Although it is highly transmissible, it is controllable with preventative measures and treatments remain effective against it. Individuals who have received two or more vaccines remain less likely to become seriously ill or die from covid-19 than those with fewer shots, and bivalent boosters are available to better protect against XBB.1.5.