New COVID Variant Behind the Recent Spread in China

What is happening?

Since its first appearance in late 2021, the COVID-19 subvariant Omicron has quickly transformed into many subvariants. One recently discovered subvariant, BF.7, is likely to be the cause of the rise in COVID-19 infections across China.

Compared to the other Omicron subvariants, BF.7 is more likely to infect individuals who have already had COVID-19, received a vaccination, or both.

A poor level of immunity is also related to the high rate of spread in Chinese.

Can you tell me more about this new variant?

When viruses mutate, they create various subvariants. This is similar to how tree branches grow. Similarly, COVID-19 produced several branches, Omicron being one of them. BF.7 is another new subvariant of Omicron.

It is believed that the high rate of BF.7 transmission is making it extremely difficult to contain the epidemic in China.

A person suffering from BF.7 can experience symptoms like fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose, and exhaustion. BF.7 might even cause more serious illnesses in people with weakened immune systems.

Has this new variant been found in other countries?

Several other countries, such as Belgium, Germany, France, Denmark, India, the United States of America (USA), the United Kingdom (UK), etc., have also reported the discovery of the BF.7 subvariant.

The government has asked people to wear masks in crowded areas and not panic. Even though COVID-19 cases haven't generally increased in India, continuous monitoring is required to look out for any new COVID-19 variants.

The Indian government has also approved a COVID-19 nasal vaccine. This will be a part of the nation's COVID-19 vaccination programme.

What did we learn from this article?

We learned that a new COVID-19 variant called BF.7 is on the rise in China. However, we shouldn’t panic. The strongest tool we still have to combat COVID-19 is vaccination, so get yourself and your loved ones vaccinated.

Wear a mask in public places, sanitize your hands if need be and ensure your friends and family are doing the same.