Due to a mutation that makes it easier for the virus to adhere to human cells and replicate, the most recent Omicron subvariant, XBB1.5, is more infectious.
Experts say that although the strain of COVID-19 is highly contagious, it does not appear to make people sicker. However, a new variant that is rapidly spreading in the United States and parts of Europe is raising concerns about an increase in infections.

A World Health Organization (WHO) official stated on Wednesday, January 4 that the most “transmissible subvariant that has been detected yet” is the most recent Omicron sublineage XBB1.5.
However, infectious disease epidemiologist Dr. Maria Van Kerkhove, WHO COVID-19 technical lead, stated that there is no evidence that it is more severe than previous versions of Omicron.

Experts stated that although scientists are still collecting data and analyzing XBB1.5, major concerns will only arise if the subvariant exhibits behavior changes and symptoms that are more widespread and severe.

Professor Ravindra Gupta from the University of Cambridge stated, “I don’t think we should be overly concerned at the moment because we don’t have any evidence that this variant is more severe.”