The first imported case of XBB.1 was previously registered in Hong Kong, which is a new variant virus strain. Xiao Jieheng, associate professor in PolyU’s Department of Medical and Computer Technology, said on a radio show this morning (12) that XBB.1 is a new variant of the two viruses BA.2.10 and BA.2.75, so it is concerning. The XBB.1 variant virus was first discovered in Singapore, and more cases have been recorded in countries such as Nepal and Mangala. It currently accounts for around 1% of global cases. It is difficult to judge whether it will become the mainstream viral strain in Hong Kong.
Xiao Jieheng cited that your research pointed out that XBB.1’s immune escape ability is temporarily the strongest among mutant viruses, but pointed out that many immune escape ability tests are in vitro experiments, which may not reflect the real situation after vaccination with the new corona vaccine.
After entry quarantine measures were changed to “0 + 3”, Xiao Jieheng said citizens could bring the local variant virus back to Hong Kong after traveling overseas. This winter is the first winter after the world has returned to normal. A new variant of the virus is expected to appear later and should be diagnosed. The numbers will also increase.
