At a Glance:
- The Omicron XE variant is spreading across the U.S. as the government.
- The XE variant was termed the Frankenstein variant because it was the result of the original Omicron variant combining with the BA.2 variant.
- WHO has also confirmed that more such variants might emerge and warned us to adhere to the guidelines.
In recent news, the Omicron XE variant is spreading across the U.S. as the government has lifted the restrictions on mandatory masks and social distancing.
The XE variant was termed the Frankenstein variant because it was the result of the original Omicron variant combining with the BA.2 variant—a sub-variant of the original Omicron. The Omicron XE virus has already spread over the UK and now is spreading across Japan.
Understanding the Frankenstein variant
The original variant and BA.2 variant strains have been spotted in a patient infected with Omicron XE. These variants are not uncommon during the pandemic. We have witnessed several instances of mutant variants of COVID-19.
WHO has also confirmed that more such variants might emerge and warned us to adhere to the guidelines. Despite the emerging variants, the U.S. has not been harshly affected. The virus is spreading quickly but has not worried the citizens of the U.S.
Should COVID guidelines be revoked?
The federal judge in Florida reversed the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention’s mask mandating masks for public transit and airplanes. Whereas, the White House and the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) revoked the mask mandate for air travel.
The government’s decision of revoking mask rules has both celebrated and concern amongst the people.
The widespread of XE aka the Frankenstein variant is a reminder for us that the pandemic is not over yet. It is important to still get vaccinated and follow the COVID-19 guidelines and precautions.
