2023-08-27 10:44:00
Stay up to date with news on COVID-19 by following the latest updates from Dr. Teera. In a Facebook post, Dr. Thira Woratanarat, Associate Professor and Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University, provided an update on the continuous mutation of the virus, particularly the new Omicron subspecies.
Dr. Thira highlighted that the Omicron subspecies, specifically EG.5.1 and BA.2.86, have shown more resistance to immunity compared to the previous subspecies, XBB.1.16. This information is based on recent research conducted by a team from Columbia University in the United States, which was published in medRxiv on August 22.
The study revealed that EG.5.1, which belongs to the Omicron subspecies, has become the second largest proportion of the global epidemic after XBB.1.16. It also demonstrated increased resistance to monoclonal antibodies due to the F456L mutational position. These findings suggest that there may be an increased risk of the outbreak spreading worldwide in the last quarter of this year.
Furthermore, another subspecies, BA.2.86, was detected in Ohio, USA. This confirms the presence of real community infections and aligns with previous findings in wastewater reports. BA.2.86 has caused concern globally due to its many mutation positions, which could result in the virus exhibiting unusual characteristics and potentially leading to a future pandemic. The virus study is still ongoing, and more information is expected in the coming weeks.
Cases of these subspecies have been reported on several continents, including the Americas, Europe, Asia, and Africa. Countries such as Israel, Denmark, the United Kingdom, the United States (including travelers from Japan), and South Africa have reported cases. Community wastewater has also detected the virus in Switzerland and Thailand, with preliminary reports suggesting its presence in the Netherlands awaiting confirmation of genetic test results.
In light of these developments, it is essential to lead a conscious life and not be careless. Properly wearing masks and taking necessary precautions greatly reduces the risk of infection. The majority of infections are a result of individuals lacking self-defense measures such as trust, complacency, or carelessness. Health consciousness and adherence to preventive measures are paramount to preventing illness, death, and the long-term effects of COVID-19.
Stay informed about the latest news and updates on this matter.
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