ORLANDO, Fla. — The Centers for Disease Control announced a new COVID-19 variant is spreading across the United States.
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Read the nine following things to know about the new variant, XBB.1.5:
1. XBB.1.5 came from two different omicron BA.2 variants of the COVID-19 virus.
2. Researchers said the new variant is highly contagious.
3. The CDC says XBB.1.5 is responsible for around 75% of cases in the Northeast.
Photos: 9 things to know about the new COVID-19 variant, XBB.1.5
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4. A John Hopkins University virologist said XBB.1.5 has an additional mutation that makes it bind better to cells, making it more spreadable.
5. XBB.1.5 is the dominant strain of new infections in the U.S.
6. While the variant appears more contagious, it is not yet clear if it is more dangerous.
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7. It is unclear if the bivalent COVID-19 booster works against XBB.1.5.
8. But doctors say the booster may help to reduce the risk of severe disease.
9. Symptoms include congestion, body aches, fever, chills, cough and sore throat.
The Cox Media Group National Content Desk contributed to this report.
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