Since SARS-CoV-2 was first identified in China, the virus has continued to mutate, giving rise to variants such as S, L, Alpha, Beta, Delta, and Omicron. Although the symptoms are broadly similar, each variant can differ in how severe the illness is and how quickly it spreads.

The Omicron XBB subvariant is a recombinant form of the BA.2.75 and BJ.1 variants and has now been reported in Indonesia. In Singapore, this subvariant drove an increase in positive cases to about 0.79 of the BA.5 wave and 0.46 of the BA.2 wave. Because of this, Ministry of Health spokesperson dr. M. Syahril has urged the public to be more vigilant.

First Omicron XBB Case Identified in Indonesia

According to Sehat Negeriku, the Ministry of Health has reported that the Omicron XBB subvariant has been found in 24 countries worldwide, including Indonesia. The first XBB case in Indonesia was a locally transmitted infection in a 29-year-old woman who had recently travelled to Lombok, West Nusa Tenggara.

She tested positive on September 26, 2022, then underwent isolation and was declared recovered on October 3.

To reduce the risk of further spread, all of her close contacts were traced and tested. The results showed that none of them were infected with the XBB subvariant. Even so, because this strain is considered more contagious, the public is still encouraged to strengthen health protocols.

Symptoms of Omicron XBB Subvariant

dr. M. Syahril explained that the first Indonesian patient with confirmed Omicron XBB experienced a cough, runny nose, and fever. As reported by NetMeds, people infected with the XBB subvariant generally develop mild to moderate upper respiratory tract infections, with symptoms such as:

• Sore throat

• Blocked or stuffy nose

• Confusion

• Fatigue

• Muscle pain

• General body aches

In some cases, patients also report gastrointestinal issues such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhoea. Even though these symptoms can resemble a common cold, they still need attention and appropriate treatment.

In the relatively few cases reported so far, symptoms have not tended to be very severe. However, people with compromised immune systems, diabetes, elderly, or those with other underlying medical conditions may require intensive hospital treatment.

Is Omicron XBB More Dangerous than Earlier Variants?

Recent studies indicate that the XBB subvariant carries more genetic changes than earlier Omicron subvariants, particularly in the receptor-binding domain *on the outer part of the spike protein).

These changes allow XBB to evade antibodies formed after vaccination or previous infection more easily. This gives XBB an advantage in spreading, although the current increase in positive cases has not yet signalled a new wave.

Even so, prevention through strict health protocols is still very important to avoid a sharp spike in cases. It is reported that patients have mild to moderate symptoms with no serious complications yet to be seen. 

To help limit the spread of the XBB subvariant, people are encouraged to complete all recommended vaccine doses, including primary doses and boosters. Getting a booster dose can provide stronger protection.

Continue to wear a mask, maintain physical distance, avoid crowds, and wash your hands with soap and clean running water or use hand sanitizer to keep your hands clean. You can take a PCR test if you have had direct contact with someone who has tested positive or if you experience the symptoms described above.

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