COVID Surge in Bangladesh

COVID, Two new Omicron subvariants, XFG and XFC, have been detected in Bangladesh, first identified at Chattogram Medical College Hospital and now found in multiple regions including Kishoregonj, Rajshahi, Cumilla, Khulna, Jashore, Sylhet, Barishal, Chattogram, and Dinajpur. These variants, descendants of the JN.1 lineage, contributed to about 7% of cases in icddr,b’s hospital-based influenza surveillance study in May. While the emergence of these variants coincides with a slight rise in COVID-19 cases, experts assure there is no major cause for alarm at this stage. Authorities urge continued vigilance, recommending vaccination, mask-wearing in crowded areas, and proper hygiene practices.