Is the XE Covid variant capable of causing severe infections like Delta?

Although the XE variant has gained prominence in recent weeks, the doctor stated that the full details of the new variant are still unknown. In the midst of reports that the Omicron hybrid strain XE is circulating in some parts of the country, a Delhi-based health expert noted that little is known about the new variant. "It appears to be more transmissible than omicron but may be less severe than Delta." He did, however, recommend that precautions be taken to avoid another covid surge.

The XE variant's specifications are currently unknown:

"Although the XE variant has received attention in recent weeks, the full details of the new variant are still unknown," said Dr Sachin Kandhari, Senior Neurosurgeon and Managing Director of IBS Hospital.

Read also: The second case of Covid XE Variant found in Gujarat

In terms of symptoms and severity, he stated, "Based on the current clinical scenario of the covid cases, it does not appear to be as fulminant symptoms as the delta strain, though transmissibility may be higher than Omicron."

According to Kandhari, the rise of new variants can be attributed to inequitable vaccination around the world, with more than a third of the population yet to receive the first dose while the US prepares for the second booster.

There's no need to be concerned: an expert on mutant strains has been consulted:

The doctor stated that the number of cases and hospitalization rates are still low. "Therefore, there is no need to panic, but you should take all necessary precautions."

He concluded that it would be prudent for all of us to take the necessary precautions to avoid extreme circumstances, such as receiving full vaccination doses, wearing masks, maintaining social distance, and practicing regular hand hygiene.

The World Health Organization recently announced the discovery of a new COVID mutant 'XE' in the United Kingdom, noting that it may be more transmissible than the BA.2 sub lineage of COVID-19. Several virologists in India, however, have stated that it is unclear whether the variant is strong enough to cause another COVID wave in the country, while also advising caution and COVID-appropriate behaviour.

Read also: What is Covid XE Variant? Is could be more dangerous or not?

So far, one case of the XE COVID variant has been identified in Mumbai and one in Gujarat. According to reports, the variant is also circulating in Delhi and Haryana.