XBB.1.16 VARIANT
As we all have been hearing about the surge in COVID-19 cases in India and the government is already trying to do its best in getting the situation under control. Now let us see what all we, as the citizens of this country to save ourselves and our country from the wrath of the deadly virus.
It was observed that most of the cases reported were of people infected by a new variant. The XBB is the variant that was responsible for the greatest number of COVID-19 cases this year 1.1.6 variant, which is a more advanced and mutated XBB strain.
A recent report by India’s SAR’S-coV-2 Genome Sequencing Consortium (INSACOG) showed that just in recent times a total of 620 cases were reported that were caused by the covid-19 XBB 1.16 variant with the majority of them coming from Maharashtra, Gujarat, Telangana, and Karnataka.
It’s a high-alert situation because XBB.1.16 is a lot more powerful when compared to the previous variants and can affect a fully vaccinated human too. The reason for XBB’s immense power is the number of mutations in its spike protein.
XBB.1.16 should be considered as the major concern looking at the speed it is spreading
Symptoms of XBB.1.16
- Blocked nose
- Upper respiratory problems
- Headache
- Sore throat
- Fever
- Muscle pains
The high-grade fever might last for more than 48 hours and the muscle pains last more than 3-4 days. Most of the symptoms are the same as the Omicron variant. It is observed that XBB.1.16 does cause any clinical issues.
The hospitalization rate is low but the infection is spreading really fast. Health experts revealed that the symptoms are all mild and that home isolation will manage it.
Elderly people, and people with cardiac problems, pulmonary issues, and kidney problems are at a high risk of being affected by this infection.
To stay safe –
- Follow the previous protocols that we did for the pandemic.
- Live the same life you’ve been living just a little safer.
- Use masks as much as possible. Note: the mask should cover your nose and mouth.
- Hand sanitizer is a must, keep yourself off the germs.
- Do not touch public surfaces, we might be clean but not everyone is so avoid touching places that are likely to be touched by many.
- Build up your immunity by adding vegetables and all nutrient-rich food to your diet.
- Avoid roadside food, mainly the ones in unhygienic places.
- If any symptoms are seen, try to opt for a test and keep yourself isolated as long as you’re tested negative.
- Panicking is not going to get us anything, just keep yourself strong, and taking proper medication will save you.
We fought the biggest battle; this might be another one. But remember, there is no battle that we cannot win. So, stay safe out there and do not loose hope.