XBB.1.16 has potential to drive fresh Covid wave? Former AIIMS director answers

Former AIIMS director Dr Randeep Guleria on Wednesday said the new XBB.1.16 variant of coronavirus could be driving the recent rise in Covid-19 cases but stressed there was no need to worry as long as it doesn't lead to severe illness, hospitalisation and deaths. India recorded 1,134 new fresh infections on Tuesday, the highest in 138 days, while the active cases increased to 7,026, according to the updated Union health ministry data. When asked about whether XBB.1.16 variant has the potential to drive a fresh Covid wave in the next few days, he said, "You may see a surge in number of cases" but then they may be underreported. His comments come on a day when Prime Minister Narendra Modi held a high-level meeting to assess the Covid and Influenza situation in the country and also took stock of the public health preparedness.