The XBB.1.5 COVID-19 variant, nicknamed "Kraken" by an evolutionary biologist on Twitter, is spreading rapidly across the U.S. and New York. Health officials state the variant is highly contagious and capable of evading immunity from prior infections and monoclonal antibody treatments. In the UK, MP Andrew Bridgen was stripped of the Conservative Party whip after raising concerns about the safety and efficacy of the vaccines.
