(SunStar) FIFTY-FOUR cases of the XBB.1.9.1 Omicron sublineage of the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) have been detected in the Philippines, according to the Department of Health (DOH).

Based on its latest Covid-19 Biosurveillance Report, there are a total of 54 XBB.1.9.1 cases detected in the Philippines.

“The XBB.1.9.1 is an XBB sublineage that was recently added to the list of variants under monitoring by the WHO last March 30,” said the DOH.

Of the total, 39 samples were classified as XBB.1.9.1 during the batch sequenced from April 3 to 11, 2023.

There were a total of 35 local and 4 returning overseas Filipinos (ROFs) found to have acquired the XBB.1.9.1 sublineage.

The other 15 cases of XBB.1.9.1 were previously classified under XBB 1.5.

The health department said the XBB.1.9.1 was initially flagged due to its increasing global prevalence and higher growth advantage.

It has since been detected in 63 countries or jurisdictions across six continents.

“However, currently available evidence for XBB.1.9.1 does not suggest any differences in disease severity and/or clinical manifestations compared to the original Omicron variant,” said the DOH.