**What is the BA.Li Variant?**.
The BA.Li variant is a sublineage of the Omicron variant of SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. It was first identified in January 2023 in China and has since spread to several other countries..
The BA.Li variant has several mutations that distinguish it from other Omicron sublineages. These mutations are located in the spike protein, which is the part of the virus that binds to human cells..
**How Worrisome is the BA.Li Variant?**.
There is still much that is unknown about the BA.Li variant. However, some experts are concerned that it may be more transmissible than other Omicron sublineages..
One study found that the BA.Li variant was able to infect human cells more easily than the BA.5 sublineage, which was previously the most dominant Omicron sublineage..
Another study found that the BA.Li variant was able to partially evade antibodies produced by vaccines and previous infections. This means that people who have been vaccinated or previously infected with COVID-19 may still be at risk of infection with the BA.Li variant..
**How is the BA.Li Variant Being Tracked?**.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is tracking the BA.Li variant and has designated it as a variant under monitoring. This means that the WHO is closely monitoring the variant and will provide updates as more information becomes available..
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is also tracking the BA.Li variant and has issued a travel advisory for several countries where the variant has been detected..
**What Can You Do to Protect Yourself from the BA.Li Variant?**.
There are several things you can do to protect yourself from the BA.Li variant and other variants of COVID-19:.
* Get vaccinated and boosted. Vaccines are the best way to protect yourself from COVID-19..
* Wear a mask in indoor public settings. Masks help to prevent the spread of respiratory droplets that can contain the virus..
* Stay home if you are sick. If you have any symptoms of COVID-19, stay home and get tested..
* Wash your hands frequently with soap and water. Handwashing helps to remove the virus from your hands and prevent it from spreading..
**Conclusion**.
The BA.Li variant is a new sublineage of the Omicron variant that is causing concern among experts. More research is needed to determine how transmissible and severe this variant is. In the meantime, it is important to take steps to protect yourself from COVID-19, including getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing a mask, and staying home if you are sick..
