Amid a rise in Covid-19 cases driven by new variants in neighboring countries such as India, the Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) has urged people to avoid travel to these regions unless absolutely necessary.
According to the DGHS, infections of new subvariants of the Omicron variant—LF.7, XFG, JN-1, and NB 1.8.1—are increasing in various countries.
This poses a risk of the virus spreading to Bangladesh through international travellers.
Among these, the most widely discussed is the Omicron subvariant XBB, which has been rapidly spreading in neighboring India.
The Omicron XBB variant is a recombinant of two Omicron subvariants—BA.2.10.1 and BA.2.75.
It was first detected in mid-2022 and has since gradually spread across the globe.
Key characteristics of XBB:
- Highly transmissible
- Has immune escape capabilities, meaning it can partially evade immunity from previous infection or vaccination
- However, there is currently no evidence that it causes severe illness or a higher death rate
Experts suggest that updated booster doses—especially vaccines based on the XBB variant—are effective in reducing the risk of severe illness, hospitalization, and death.
Although vaccination may not completely prevent infection, it plays a vital role in preventing serious complications.
Several subvariants have evolved from XBB, such as XBB.1, XBB.1.5, and the more recently discussed NB.1.8.1. Some of these are even more contagious than earlier ones, though vaccines still remain effective.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized XBB and its subvariants as variants of interest or variants under monitoring, meaning they are under scientific surveillance and could become significant public health concerns in the future.
The Global Virus Network (GVN) reports that while these variants have high transmission potential, there is no evidence yet that they increase the risk of severe illness or death.
However, the organization urges continued caution and emphasizes the importance of vaccination.
What general public should do:
- Ensure you are up to date with your Covid-19 vaccinations
- Wear masks in crowded places
- Get tested and isolate if symptoms appear
- Follow local health guidelines
Experts emphasize that while XBB and its subvariants are new forms of Omicron, they are not currently cause for serious alarm.
Nonetheless, adhering to health guidelines, staying vaccinated, and remaining vigilant are the best forms of protection.
Vaccination recommendations
According to the GVN, since there is no complete cure, preventive measures remain crucial. Their vaccine-related recommendations include:
- Updated booster doses are vital for people aged 65 and above, as well as those at high risk
- Everyone aged six months and older should complete their vaccination regimen
- Children and teenagers should receive an updated vaccine at least once a year, as the protection from earlier vaccines decreases over time
- Vaccination is highly important for pregnant women, as it offers protection to newborns during their first six months
- Covid-19 and flu vaccines can be taken together without significant side effects
GVN emphasizes that the emergence of new variants is not necessarily a public health emergency but rather an opportunity to enhance preparedness.
The organization calls for alertness, scientific monitoring, and a focus on vaccination instead of panic.
