Surprise, Surprise. Michael Baker Thinks you Should be Very Concerned About Kraken/XBB.1.5
January 10, 2023
PHOTO: RNZ
The new Covid-19 subvariant has the potential to create a new wave of Covid-19 cases, epidemiologist Michael Baker says.
The first two cases of Kraken, or XBB 1.5, were detected in New Zealand last week.
Professor Baker said despite the ominous name, it was important to remember it was just another variant of Omicron although it had “some novel features which are of concern”.
It is based on a recombinant virus but it has added in a new genetic mutation which meant it could more easily escape people’s existing immunity and also had a better ability to bind with the ace receptors in the body which made it more infectious.
“Those things only matter because it means it gives it a growth advantage which is being seen in North America at the moment so it’s outcompeting other variants and if it does that successfully in New Zealand as well then it could lead to another wave of infections.”