Several health experts have said that the XBB 1.16 sub variant does not have a risk of severity which was seen during the Delta wave of COVID infection; some others also deny reports of an upcoming new wave of infection.
According to the WHO data, as on March 27 a total of 712 XBB 1.16 sequences were found in 21 countries.
“However, so far reports do not indicate a rise in hospitalizations, ICU admissions, or deaths due to XBB.1.16. Further, there are currently no reported laboratory studies on markers of disease severity for XBB.1.16,” the UN health agency said.
However, health experts have warned against the infection and have urged people to stay safe and follow anti COVID measures.
