Everything You Need to Know About Omicron XBB.1.16

As the Omicron XBB.1.16 variant continues to spread in India and elsewhere, health concerns are growing. This surge is most common in cities including Delhi, Kerala, Mumbai, and others. According to the latest reports published by Health Ministry on 13th April, the number of active cases is 44,998.

What is Omicron XBB.1.16 Variant?

The Omicron XBB.1.16 Variant is a sub-variant of Omicron and is spreading at a rapid rate in different countries including India, China, the US, and others. As compared to the XBB.1.5 and XBB.1.9, the current Omicron variant is infecting a number of people from all over. This new variant of Omicron was first detected in January in India. In India, the most affected states include Delhi, Maharashtra, and others.  

This sudden surge in COVID-19 cases is witnessed after 4 months and thus is a matter of concern for all of us. With this sudden rise, the Indian government is gearing up and conducting mock drills, spreading awareness about vaccination, and taking several other precautionary measures to reduce the spread.

Symptoms of Omicron XBB.1.16 Variant

Some of the symptoms of the Omicron XBB.1.16 Variant include:

• Fever
• Sore throat
• Body pain
• Headache
• Abdominal discomfort

Is Omicron XBB.1.16 Variant Covered in Health Insurance Plans?

As dictated by the Insurance Regulatory and Development Authority of India or IRDAI, all the health insurance companies must provide coverage for COVID-19 in their health insurance plans. So, with the rapid increase in COVID-19 cases, it is advisable to buy health insurance plans that provide coverage for the same. To help you out, we have enlisted some of the top health insurance plans covering COVID-19:

• Activ Assure – Diamond with Super NCB: With a starting premium of Rs. 7,149/annum, the Activ Assure – Diamond with Super NCB is one of the popular health insurance plans offered by Aditya Birla. By providing coverage for COVID-19, the Activ Assure – Diamond with Super NCB covers hospitalisation and all the other medical expenses incurred.
• HDFC ERGO Optima Restore: The HDFC ERGO Optima Restore is another plan that you can consider buying to enjoy COVID-19 coverage. It provides health insurance coverage of up to 5 lakhs and includes pre and post hospitalisation expenses, along with others. 

In addition to these plans, there are COVID-19 specific plans like Corona Rakshak and Corona Kavach policy. While Corona Rakshak provides lump-sum benefits when diagnosed with COVID-19, Corona Kavach policy on the other hand offers financial assistance when diagnosed with COVID-19. 

Ways to Reduce the Spread of COVID-19 in 2023

There are different ways in which you can reduce the further spread of Omicron XBB.1.16. Listed below are the steps you can take for the same:

• Wear your mask in the right manner and ensure that your nose, chin, and mouth are properly covered.
• Make sure to sanitise your hands at regular intervals.
• Get vaccinated with all the doses as soon as possible. You can find all the details related to vaccination on the CoWIN website. 
• Maintain social distancing and avoid going to crowded places and always cover your mouth when you cough or sneeze.
• If by any chance you develop symptoms of COVID-19, then get tested and isolate yourself to further prevent the spread of the infection.

Take Away

With the number of COVID-19 cases increasing, it is best to buy health insurance plans that provide COVID-19 coverage. You should also take all the precautionary measures possible to reduce Omicron XBB.1.16 from being spread further. 

Also read: India is Witnessing Surge in COVID-19 Cases, Should You Be Worried?