Covid surge: Should India be worried about Omicron sub-variant?

Covid-19 surge in India: Covid-19 cases are on the up stick in many countries and is raising concerns globally especially in India where several Omicron cases have been reported.

As per the experts, the new Omicron cases also have the capability to infect even those who have been vaccinated. 

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What is Omicron XBB.1.5 sub-variant ?

As per the research, Omicron XBB.1.5 is an upgraded version of XBB, a recombinant sub-lineage of Omicron that was found a few months ago in multiple countries like Singapore and later in India.

This type of Omicron has a greater ability to attach itself to human ACE-2 receptor while retaining the outstanding immune evasiveness of its ancestor. 

As per the statement by health expert, "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."

Meanwhile, as per the latest data XXB accounts for 20 per cent, while the older variant BA.2.75 is still dominant.    

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Notably, USA has the highest count and India reported only 1 case of global XBB.1.5.