Lung Specialist Calls Omicron Subvariant XBB Able To Labor Antibodies

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JAKARTA - Pulmonary specialist dr. Qamariah Laila, Sp.P said, COVID-19 subvariant Omicron XBB is able to trick antibodies either formed through a history of infection with previous variants or vaccines. "The unique nature of this subvariant is that it can trick antibodies so that this is a challenge for us," Qamariah said as quoted by Antara, Wednesday, November 3. Due to its nature that can trick antibodies, the Omicron XBB subvariant has the potential to be undetected by antigen tests. In addition, the subvariant is also very likely to infect people who have been exposed to the previous variant of COVID-19 and people who have been vaccinated. As a derivative of the Omicron variant, the XBB subvariant still has many of the same properties as its parent, which is able to spread quickly. "In fact, maybe this XBB is one of the faster variants of Omicron that was spread yesterday," he said. Although the transmission is fast, he explains that the Omicron XBB subvariant is not malignant, so the symptoms are relatively milder and do not require special treatment. According to him, the Omicron XBB subvariant has symptoms similar to the previous variant of COVID-19, even with common colds. The symptoms of fever, cough, shortness of breath, headache, weakness and soreness. If you experience these symptoms, Qamariah recommends resting at home and implementing health protocols properly so as not to infect others. "The symptoms are difficult to distinguish. Since we are still in a pandemic, we must remain vigilant. If we experience such symptoms, for the sake of vigilance, as long as the symptoms are mild, it is not too worrying, but obviously we need self-isolation, wearing masks, keeping a distance from those closest to us, resting at home," he said. "Especially if it has been confirmed. First look at the symptoms, if the regular symptoms may be treated at home, isolated, resting, eating nutritiously, taking medication according to the doctor's direction. If there are additional symptoms, consult (to the doctor) immediately," concluded Qamariah.