Omicron subvariant XBB detected in HCM City

HCM CITY — A new variant of Omicron called XBB has been detected in HCM City. During the second half of 2022, the southern city reported mostly Omicron and Delta cases. According to the World Health Organization, XBB and its sublineages are recombinant BA.2.10.1 and BA.2.75 sublineages. There is, however, early evidence pointing at a higher reinfection risk than other circulating Omicron sublineages, said the organisation. More than 265.5 million COVID-19 vaccines have been administered in the country, according to its Ministry of Health.