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The XBB Variant: A New Chapter in China’s COVID-19 Story

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    November 14, 2023 10:06 PM EST

    The XBB Variant: A New Chapter in China’s COVID-19 Story
    As the world continues to grapple with the COVID-19 pandemic, a new variant has emerged on the horizon. Known as the XBB variant, this new strain of the virus has sparked a fresh wave of infections in China.To get more news about china covid xbb variant, you can visit shine news official website.

    The Emergence of the XBB Variant
    The XBB variant is a hybrid of Omicron’s BA.2.75 and BJ.1 sub-variants. It is believed that the XBB variant has a “growth advantage” over BA.2.75 and immune evasive properties. XBB has seven mutations on the spike protein3. The immune system takes time to recognize XBB3.

    The Impact of the XBB Variant in China
    China is bracing for a new wave of COVID-19 infections that could see as many as 65 million cases per week by the time the surge peaks at the end of June1. This is a startling prediction in a country where the pandemic originated in late 2019. Now, with the latest Omicron variant, XBB, fueling a resurgence in cases, the response from China’s government and the public is muted at best.

    The surge comes about six months after the country dismantled its sprawling infrastructure for dealing with COVID-19, including harsh lockdowns, mass testing, stifling quarantines, and strict mask requirements. Despite the alarming numbers, the general sentiment among the public seems to be one of adaptability rather than fear.

    The Global Implications of the XBB Variant
    The emergence of the XBB variant and the subsequent surge in cases in China have raised concerns globally. The United States, which imposed a testing requirement on travelers from China in January before lifting it in March, is discussing China’s second COVID-19 wave with allies and partners.

    The XBB variant is a stark reminder of the evolving nature of the COVID-19 virus and the need for continued vigilance. As the world watches China’s handling of this new wave, it serves as a crucial lesson in pandemic management and the importance of adaptability in the face of an ever-changing virus.

    Conclusion
    The XBB variant represents a new chapter in the ongoing saga of the COVID-19 pandemic. As China navigates this new wave of infections, the world watches with bated breath, hoping for a swift resolution. The story of the XBB variant is still unfolding, and only time will tell what impact it will have on the global fight against COVID-1912.