Explained: What Is New Omicron Strain XE, Why It Is 10 Times More Transmissible

The world is yet to come out from the clutches of the Covid-19 pandemic as the new Omicron strain is turned out to be more transmissible than previous strains of the novel coronavirus.

While many Indian states were seen lifting imposed Covid curbs, the new variant might fuel the situation. One of the major concerns is that the new strain has the ability to evade detection but spread quickly.

What is the new Omicron strain ¡®XE¡¯?

The WHO called the new strain XE recombinant (BA.1-BA.2) and Xe belongs to the Omicron variant until significant differences in transmission and disease characteristics, including severity, may be reported.

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Being a recombinant strain, it is a mutant hybrid BA.1 and BA.2 versions, the previous versions of the Omicron variant.

New variant is more transmissible

According to the UK Health Security Agency, XE happens to be 10 times more transmissible as compared to the previous strain.

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First detected in the UK on 19th January 2022, researchers also suggest that the new variant of omicron strain is responsible for about 86 per cent of all Covid cases detected recently. The WHO said, on the basis of differences identified during the study, the new variant is the part of Omicron variant.

XE has no severe symptoms

Having the ability to evade detection, the researchers called XE, a stealth variant. According to reports, despite having high transmissibility, the new variant does not show severe systems as initial symptoms include dizziness, headaches, Fatigue, muscle soreness and sore throat, fever.

Further, the new variant also leads to symptoms like diarrhoea, nausea, vomiting, and stomach ache. However, the symptoms like loss of smell and taste are rarely reported in this variant.

Two more strains Found?

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Other than the XE variant, there are two other new recombinant strains that are also identified namely XD and XF variant. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the XD is a hybrid of Delta and BA.1 variants of Omicron and XF is a combination of the UK Delta virus and the BA.1 virus.

Is it too early to lift Covid curbs?

The World Health Organization (WHO) has already warned the countries about lifting Covid measures too early.

Recently, after observing a dip in daily covid cases in the country, the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs announced to end all Covid containment measures from March 31. But it is advised to follow Covid-appropriate behaviour.

Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have also lifted all covid curbs and announced that wearing masks is not mandatory but voluntary now.

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Jitendra Awhad, Minister of Housing of Maharashtra said, ¡°Now all festivals can be celebrated enthusiastically, wearing masks will be compulsory,".

There will be no fine for not wearing face masks at public places in Delhi as well. The West Bengal government also decide to end all curbs related to the contagion. However, the use of masks and hygiene maintenance is advised by the government.

What is happening in world?

In March, Hong Kong resumed international flights and South Korea relaxed its social distancing rules and is expected to lift all the imposed Covid rules.

Sweden, the top tourist destination in Europe also start welcoming travellers from abroad and has removed all COVID-19 border restrictions. Australia ended the entry ban for cruise Ships after 2 years.

Several other countries are easing the covid-19 restrictions to revive their economy but a new variant has definitely emerged as a global challenge again.

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