One Case of 'XL Variant' Confirmed in Korea... Fully Vaccinated Person with No Overseas Travel History

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[Asia Economy Reporter Kim Young-won] The 'XL variant' of COVID-19 has been confirmed for the first time in South Korea.

The Central Disease Control Headquarters announced on the 12th that one case of the XL recombinant variant of Omicron was confirmed for the first time in the country, and an epidemiological investigation is underway.

The individual infected with the XL variant tested positive on the 23rd of last month and has since been released from isolation. They had completed three doses of vaccination, and no symptoms were reported at the time of diagnosis. It was also confirmed that there was no history of overseas travel during the presumed infection period.

The XL variant is a recombinant variant combining the Omicron BA.1 and BA.2 genes, and is one of the 17 confirmed recombinant variants (XA to XS). It was first discovered in the UK in February, with 66 cases confirmed there as of the 11th. According to the UK Health Security Agency, recombinant variants have been reported to disappear without causing significant outbreaks.

On the same day, Lee Sang-won, head of the epidemiological investigation and analysis team at the Central Disease Control Headquarters, stated, "The World Health Organization (WHO) also classifies the XL type as a general Omicron variant, so it is expected that there will be no significant changes in characteristics and the impact will be limited." He added, "While vigilance is necessary regarding recombinant variants, excessive concern is not required."

A representative from the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said, "Considering that there is no analytical data on the transmissibility or severity of the XL variant, we plan to continue strengthening variant monitoring."

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