The ongoing risk of the new coronavirus is refocused. The background is that a new subtype of Omicron mutant strain was found in China, and a type that may be more infectious than the conventional strain is spreading in the United Kingdom. But experts say they don’t have to panic.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is the most infectious to date for a hybrid type called “XE,” which is a combination of two variants of the Omicron mutant, “BA.1” and “BA.2.” There is a fear. The first confirmed “XE” in the UK is believed to be more infectious than “BA.2”, which is known for its high infectivity.
In China, the number of newly infected people per day has increased sharply here, recording the largest increase since the spread of infection in Wuhan City. Authorities have revealed the existence of two subtypes that do not match existing gene sequences. It is unknown at this time whether the spread of this infection will end in a transient manner.
China’s Corona Crisis Expands, Infection Rapidly Increases-New Subtypes of Omicron Strains
Rajiv Benkaya, a former presidential aide to biodefense at the White House, said, “Chinese authorities say that infection containment measures are not effective against highly infectious viruses such as Omicron variants. For example, this could pose a threat to the world. ” He was appointed CEO of the pharmaceutical company Aeliam Therapeutics last month.
Meanwhile, tracking the emergence of new mutant strainsReport“We should keep an eye on the new subtypes, but we don’t have to panic for now,” said Leo Poon, a professor at the University of Hong Kong. He said it was not unexpected that the two variants would be combined, and that caution should be exercised if they are detected in multiple areas and the community-acquired infection spreads.
news-rsf-original-reference paywall">Original title:
news-rsf-original-reference paywall">China Variants and Omicron XE Put Fresh Focus on Covid Mutations(excerpt)