AUSTIN (KXAN) — On Friday, Austin Public Health announced that a new omicron subvariant was reported in the Travis County area.
In addition to the new variant, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has classified Travis County’s COVID-19 community level as medium risk for the first time in five months.
The APH said it did not detect the omicron XBB.1.5 subvariant in Travis County wastewater samples, but it has been reported in other parts of Texas and throughout the country.
“We must avoid a new wave,” said APH director Adrienne Sturrup. “Our hospitals are currently treating patients with COVID-19, influenza and various upper respiratory illnesses. If you’ve already decided to prioritize your health with healthier eating or more physical activity this New Year, add vaccination to your list. If you are already vaccinated, do your reminder. Protect yourself and your loved ones who are at high risk of serious illness.
These are the key metrics used to determine the community level in Travis County. The numbers below are as of Friday, January 6:
- COVID-19 cases per 100,000: 141
- COVID-19 hospital admissions per 100,000: 10.3
5 things to know about the omicron XBB sub-variant:
- XBB is a subline of omicron.
- XBB is quickly replacing previous subvariants in the US
- Dual-use boosters still provide a level of protection and reduce your risk of hospitalization.
- XBB is resistant to existing COVID-19 treatments such as monoclonal infusions, which is of concern for immunocompromised people.
- Symptoms of XBB resemble those of other variants of COVID-19, including cough, congestion, exhaustion, fever, sore throat, nausea, diarrhea, and headache.
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