China Combats Ongoing COVID-19 Wave with Vaccinations as XBB Variants Evolve

(CTN News) – China authorities are rapidly distributing vaccines to tackle an ongoing wave of COVID-19, which is expected to peak in June and potentially infect up to 65 million people per week.

The new wave is attributed to the evolution of XBB variants, bypassing the immunity developed after China departs from its “zero covid” policy last year, as reported by The Washington Post.

New Vaccinations Approved for XBB Omicron Subvariants

Chinese epidemiologist Zhong Nanshan approved two new vaccinations targeting the XBB omicron subvariants, including XBB.1.9.1, XBB.1.5, and XBB.1.16.

During a biotech symposium in Guangzhou, Zhong stated that three to four additional vaccines would soon receive approval, although further details were not provided.

Potential Severity of the Current Wave and Impact on Mortality

This new outbreak in China is projected to be the most significant wave of illnesses since the abandonment of the strict zero-Covid program last winter, which resulted in many infections at that time.

While Chinese officials believe the current wave will be less severe, public health experts emphasize the need for a robust vaccination booster program and access to antiviral medications in hospitals to prevent a surge in mortality, particularly among the elderly.

Increase in Cases and Reinfections with Milder Symptoms

The Beijing Centre for Disease Control and Prevention has reported an increase in COVID-19 cases since last month, surpassing the flu as the most prevalent infectious disease in the final two weeks of April.

Health experts assure the public that reinfections tend to have milder symptoms and that hospitals will not be overwhelmed as they were during the previous winter.

Public Health Measures and Recommendations in China

Although restrictions similar to the zero-Covid era have not been reinstated, health authorities have advised citizens, especially the elderly and immunocompromised, to wear masks and avoid crowded areas.

While many Chinese citizens continue with their daily lives, there have been reports of universities implementing quarantine measures for students testing positive, with some students opting for self-quarantine at school to protect their families.

Differences in Approach Compared to the Zero-Covid Era

Unlike the stringent measures of the zero-Covid era, where China aimed to eliminate all cases, the current approach in China focuses on managing the ongoing wave. This shift acknowledges the need to balance controlling the virus and minimizing disruptions to daily life.

Student Quarantine Measures in Nanjing University

Reports have surfaced regarding a university in Nanjing requiring students who test positive for COVID-19 to quarantine in dormitories. Some students have shared their experiences of self-quarantining at school to prevent infecting family members at home.

Conclusion

China is facing an ongoing wave of COVID-19 infections driven by the emergence of XBB variants. To combat this wave, Chinese authorities are swiftly rolling out vaccinations, with preliminary approval granted to two new vaccines targeting the XBB omicron subvariants. Additional vaccines are expected to receive approval in the near future.