The Omicron sub-variants driving the China surge
Context- Ever since China did away with its ‘zero-Covid’ policy in early December, there have been reports of an increase in cases, hospitalisations, and deaths. The country, however, hasn’t been forthcoming with data. The World Health Organisation has said that the data being published from the country “under-represent the true impact of the disease.”
Which variants are leading to the surge in China?
After a meeting with Chinese scientists, the WHO’s technical advisory group on virus evolution (TAG-VE) confirmed that the local cases in China were caused by the BF.7 and BA.5.2 sub-variants of Omicron.
Are these two variants found in India?
Yes, both the variants have been reported in India.
Would these variants increase risk of hospitalisations or deaths?
“I do not think there is any increased threat to India,” said Dr Anurag Agarwal, chairperson of WHO’s TAG-VE and the dean of biosciences and health research at the Trivedi School of Biosciences at Ashoka University.
What are Variants of Concern?
(Credits- WHO)
What are types of vaccines for COVID-19?
(Credits- COVID-19 Vaccine Tracker)
Source- Indian Express
NEWS- The Omicron sub-variants driving the China surge
Syllabus- Prelims; Current Affairs
