A new Covid variant, NB.1.8.1, has emerged globally and reached the U.S., prompting monitoring from the World Health Organization (WHO). While it shows increased transmissibility compared to the prevalent strain, LP.8.1, there is no evidence of it leading to more severe illness or significantly evading vaccine protection. Virologist Andrew Pekosz noted that while NB.1.8.1 is important to track, it doesn’t currently indicate a major surge in cases, particularly in the U.S.
Federal and state health authorities continue to monitor Covid variants to inform vaccine updates. Even though there has not been a recent wave of Covid infections, and fewer than 25% of adults have received the latest booster, experts warn that NB.1.8.1 could contribute to a minor increase in infections during the summer. Dr. Thomas Russo expressed concern that the combination of waning immunity and seasonal trends could exacerbate outbreaks.
As of now, NB.1.8.1 is still rare in the U.S. with fewer than 20 sequences reported, and it has been detected in limited locations including Arizona and Ohio. The variant is dominant in China, showcasing its potential for rapid spread. Updated vaccines targeting LP.8.1 are expected to offer some protection against NB.1.8.1, but the FDA has limited approval to older adults and high-risk younger individuals. This may leave pregnant individuals and children under 5 particularly vulnerable, highlighting ongoing concerns about immunity decline and virus evolution.
Overall, while NB.1.8.1 raises some alarms, current data does not indicate a significant health threat for the U.S. population at this time.
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