The new variant is taking over.
A newly emerging COVID-19 variant known as NB.1.8.1 is rapidly spreading and now appears to be responsible for over a third of all COVID-19 cases in the United States, according to health officials. This variant, which previously caused a surge in hospitalizations across parts of Asia, has gained traction in the U.S., with recent CDC data showing it made up nearly 50% of infections detected in international travelers during the final week of May.
The CDC’s airport surveillance initiative—where arriving international travelers voluntarily provide nasal swabs and survey responses—has been instrumental in identifying the variant’s spread. Though current data suggest NB.1.8.1 is becoming more prevalent, the CDC cautions that the figures may shift as more information is collected due to a wide margin of error in early estimates.
Experts say that while NB.1.8.1 is more transmissible than previous variants, it doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness. “It seems to have a growth advantage, which means it’s likely spreading more easily, but it’s not necessarily more dangerous,” said Dr. Subhash Verma, a professor at the University of Nevada, Reno. The symptoms remain largely the same: sore throat, cough, fever, and fatigue.
The changing landscape of the virus may also impact vaccine availability. In May, the FDA confirmed it would continue to authorize updated COVID-19 vaccines for individuals at higher risk, such as older adults and those with chronic health issues. However, new vaccines for the broader population may face delays, as manufacturers must conduct additional large-scale trials for approval. As a result, many healthy children and adults may not receive updated shots this fall.
Adding to the debate, U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. recently stated he intends to rescind the CDC’s recommendation that healthy pregnant women and children be vaccinated. In response, the CDC clarified that vaccination remains an option for children aged six months and older, provided that parents and healthcare providers agree based on personal health circumstances and preferences.
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