The Rise of XBB. 1.5 Sub-Variant Threatens Progress Against the Pandemic, Raises Concerns of Vaccine Resistance
As life gradually returns to normalcy after two years of grappling with the pandemic, a new threat in the form of the XBB. 1.5 sub-variant of Covid has emerged, jeopardizing the progress made so far.
Dubbed the Kraken, the new Omicron strain is believed to possess higher transmissibility and the ability to evade the protection provided by vaccines and previous infection.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has designated this strain as “the most transmissible sub-variant detected thus far,” with XBB. 1.5 causing a significant number of infections in the United States. It has also been identified in Australia, the United Kingdom, and several European countries, including Denmark, France, Germany, and Spain.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that over 40 percent of infections in the country are attributed to XBB. 1.5.
NSW Health in Australia confirmed the presence of the new strain in small numbers across the state, acknowledging the coexistence of a diverse group of sub-variants. The fortnightly report highlighted that the BR. 2 sub-variant remains the most prevalent.
Professor Bruce Thompson, the Head of the University of Melbourne’s School of Health Sciences, emphasized that the “rules of engagement” remain unchanged. While increased transmissibility might lead to a surge in cases, the key factor to consider is whether the new sub-variant results in more severe illness, which initial analysis suggests is not the case.
Overseas, governments have urged their residents to remain vigilant and avoid complacency regarding the virus.
In the UK, the Health Security Agency advises individuals with cold and flu symptoms to stay at home or wear masks, as the country’s National Health System (NHS) battles both Covid and flu cases. This recommendation follows the lifting of all Covid restrictions in the UK in February 2022 by then-Prime Minister Boris Johnson.
Health Secretary Humza Yousaf warned that the NHS would face an extremely challenging period in the next two weeks due to the co-circulation of both viruses in the community.
In Australia, where Covid cases have declined to around 9,000 after peaking at over 16,000 in mid-December, Professor Thompson emphasized the importance of adhering to basic measures. He advised wearing masks in crowded areas, practicing hand hygiene, staying home when feeling unwell, and taking advantage of available oral antiviral treatments.
The surge of new Covid cases in China could have significant implications for Australia’s economy, given China’s status as its largest trading partner. Treasurer Jim Chalmers identified the impact on supply chains as one of the key risks to the country’s economy in 2023. The heavy reliance on Chinese markets and workforces across various industries could be severely affected.
Dr. Richard Denniss, a senior economist and Executive Director of the Australia Institute, cautioned that disruptions in supply chains between China and Australia could lead to increased inflation in 2023. The full extent of the impact on China’s economy due to the rising Covid cases is yet to be realized, but the effects will likely be felt globally within a few months. Dr. Denniss also highlighted the potential consequences on manufacturing capabilities, including the availability of silicon chips and building materials. The outsourcing of manufacturing to China over the years has rendered Australia more vulnerable to changes in China’s trade and health policies, necessitating higher prices for goods.
In summary, the emergence of the XBB. 1.5 sub-variant poses a threat to progress in combating the pandemic, with concerns about transmissibility and vaccine evasion. Vigilance and adherence to preventive measures are crucial. Additionally, the rise in Covid cases in China could have significant economic ramifications, impacting global supply chains and potentially leading to increased inflation and supply shortages in various industries.
