For the most part, we've left masks and self-isolation in 2022 – but unfortunately, it seems that Covid is continuing to rear its ugly head into 2023. Experts have identified a new strain of Covid named XBB. 1.5, a mutated version of Omicron that's now been detected in at least 74 countries, including right here Down Under.
It's not all bad news: according to infectious disease specialists, only 20 per cent of infected persons in December had previously had Covid. These low numbers indicate that many Australians have hybrid immunity, meaning they're protected by their vaccinations and previous infection experiences. While this is good news, experts warn that Aussies shouldn't become complacent: part of this hybrid immunity requires staying up to date on booster shots.
Here are the main symptoms of the XBB variant:
- Scratchy throat
- Lower back pain
- Runny rose/congestion
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Sneezing
- Night sweats
- Body aches
Victorians are no longer required to self-isolate after testing positive, and masks are not required aside from when visiting sensitive settings like hospitals and aged care facilities. In saying that, the current advice from the World Health Organisation (WHO) for those exposed to or showing signs of Covid is to self-isolate, social distance and wear a mask when possible.