The Covid-19 pandemic is getting better. But some time ago, WHO again announced that a new variant was found, namely the XE variant.
This new type is said to be an Omicron derivative variant which is a recombination of Omicron BA.1 and BA.2. First detected in the UK, the symptoms of variant XE are believed to be similar to those of Omicron but this variant is 10 percent more infectious than BA.2.
This is the Response of the Covid-19 Task Force and the Facts of the XE Variant
The surprising fact of the discovery of a new variant of Covid-19 makes many people worry that there will be another spike in cases. The Covid-19 Task Force then spoke about the uproar over the findings of this XE variant.
Emphasizing this, the Covid-19 Task Force also urges the public to remain calm even though they must remain vigilant for several reasons. Here are some facts about the XE variant that you should know so you don't panic.
1. Recombination of viral variants is not new
The Covid-19 Task Force emphasized that virus recombination is not new, so people don't need to be too worried. Prof. Wiku Adisasmito as spokesman for the Covis-19 Task Force said that the transmission capability of Omicron XE was about 10 percent higher than Omicron BA.2.
Based on preliminary data, it was found that the transmission capability of Omicron XE is about 10 percent higher than that of Omicron BA.2. However, WHO stressed the need for further research on these preliminary findings.
2. Haven't Entered Some Countries
The XE variant is known to have entered several countries, especially Europe. Although they still have to be vigilant, people are advised not to panic too much.
Prof. Wiku explained that this variant has not been found in several countries.
So far, according to the Ministry of Health, the variant which was first discovered in the UK has not been found in this country.
3. Although the communicable power is allegedly high, the symptoms of the XE variant are classified as mild
The XE variant is known to be an Omicron derivative variant, so it is believed to have almost similar symptoms. Since the XE variant was discovered, until now there have been no new symptoms in the XE variant that are different from the previous Omicron symptoms.
So far, the symptoms of the Omicron variant that have been complained of include runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing and sore throat. That way, even though it is alleged to have a 10 percent higher infectiousness, the XE variant does not cause severe symptoms and effects of infection.
4. The Government is Ready to Respond to Adjust Policies
Responding to the excitement of the discovery of a new variant, on one occasion he also responded to the issues that were happening.
The government remains cautious because the government is aware that a high spike in cases always occurs with new variants. So we always monitor the new variants that exist.
Prof. Wiku as the spokesperson for the Covid-19 Task Force also asked the public not to panic too much because the government had made predictions and anticipations regarding this new variant.
"For this reason, the government always monitors and uses the latest data while still prioritizing prudence in various policy adjustments," he explained.
Those are some facts and expert responses regarding the emergence of a new variant of Covid-19 XE. Stay safe and keep the health protocols always ok.