Recently in Thailand, the first cases of the novel Omicron variant, denoted as the HK.3, have been confirmed by the Department of Medical Sciences (DMS). This subvariant of Covid-19 was detected in two individuals belonging to the same family, although their current health status has not been officially stated as yet by DMS. The severity and transmissibility associated with this strain in contrast to its predecessors remain under review.
Providing further context on the emerging situation, the head of the Department of Medical Sciences, Dr. Supakit Sirilak, shed light on the affected individuals. The variant was found in a 65-year-old male and an 11-year-old female, both from the same household in Bangkok. While the symptoms they experienced were mild, both have since made a successful recovery.
Despite the onset of this new sub-variant, Dr. Sirilak cautions against making any hasty judgements regarding whether the HK.3 strain will be more harmful than the other Omicron variants. This reminder came in the wake of rising apprehensions following a report suggesting that this new variant could have a higher transmission rate. Allegedly, this new strain could be 66% more contagious than existing variants and display up to 96% transmission capacity when compared to the XBB.1.16 variant currently detected in Thailand.
“The data we are basing our calculations on is quite limited at the moment, having detected only two confirmed cases so far. Therefore, it is premature to draw any conclusions about the HK.3 strain at this time. We should continue to observe the situation for a few more weeks until we have a clearer understanding,” Dr. Sirilak cautioned.
Continuing to keep a watchful eye on the evolving landscape of Covid variants in the country, the Department of Medical Sciences is utilizing whole-genome sequencing. This technique allows for the identification of sub-variants by observing the mutation of the virus’s spike protein at different sites. As per Dr. Sirilak, the most commonly observed variant in Thailand is the Omicron’s XBB.1.16, linked to 39.66% of Covid infections. This variant is closely trailed by XBB.2.3, accounting for 16.39%, and XBB.1.9.1, representing 14.66%. Furthermore, Dr. Sirilak predicts the EG.5 variant might become the prominent strain due to its potential transmission capacity. Yet, there is no confirmation if this variant can result in severe manifestations of the disease, based upon the latest reports from the Bangkok Post.
Please stay updated on the latest happenings in Thailand by following The Thaiger’s newest posts on their fresh-off-the-press Facebook page: [CLICK HERE](#).
Be First to Comment