Recombinant Variant - Enhanced Transmissibility

Omicron XBB Variant Family

Comprehensive medical information about the Omicron XBB recombinant variant family, including subvariants, symptoms, and protection strategies.

Last updated: June 20, 2025

Transmissibility

Very High

Highly transmissible recombinant variant

Immune Evasion

High

Enhanced ability to evade immune responses

Severity

Moderate

Similar severity to other Omicron subvariants

Vaccine Response

Good with Updates

Updated vaccines maintain protection

XBB Subvariants

Key subvariants within the XBB lineage

XBB.1.5

Kraken

Status

Declining

Dominance

Previous dominant

Key Features

• Enhanced ACE2 binding
• Immune evasion
• High transmissibility

XBB.1.9.1

Hyperion

Status

Monitoring

Dominance

Regional spread

Key Features

• Additional mutations
• Immune escape
• Moderate severity

XBB.1.16

Arcturus

Status

Under surveillance

Dominance

Global presence

Key Features

• Conjunctivitis reports
• Child infections
• Upper respiratory

Common Symptoms

Most frequently reported symptoms for XBB variants

Sore Throat

Prevalence:88%

Very Common

Runny Nose

Prevalence:83%

Very Common

Fatigue

Prevalence:79%

Common

Cough

Prevalence:76%

Common

Fever

Prevalence:71%

Common

Headache

Prevalence:68%

Common

Body Aches

Prevalence:62%

Moderate

Loss of Taste/Smell

Prevalence:18%

Less Common

Protection Against XBB Variants

Updated Vaccines

Bivalent boosters provide enhanced protection against XBB variants

High-Quality Masks

N95/KN95 masks remain highly effective against transmission

Improved Ventilation

Good airflow reduces risk of airborne transmission

Regular Testing

Early detection helps prevent spread to others

Medical Information

This information is for educational purposes only. Consult healthcare professionals for personalized medical advice. Seek immediate medical attention for severe symptoms.

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