experts fear is more infectious’ with case numbers
New Covid Variant NB.1.8.1 Spreads Globally
Health experts have issued a warning about a new Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which appears to be more infectious than earlier strains. First identified in January, it has now been detected in 22 countries, including the UK, with recent cases reported in Wales. It is also spreading in popular travel destinations like Thailand, Egypt, and the Maldives.
Rising Cases, But Not More Severe
Though NB.1.8.1 is spreading quickly, experts say it doesn’t seem to cause more serious illness. “Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants,” said Professor Subhash Verma, “although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily. In other words, it is more transmissible.”
WHO Response and Risk Level
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified the variant as a “variant under monitoring” due to its mutations and wide presence. However, it has assessed the public health risk as “low at the global level.” The WHO added: “Currently approved Covid-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective to this variant against symptomatic and severe disease.”
Symptoms and Precautions
NB.1.8.1 is now dominant in some areas, including China and Hong Kong. According to Professor Laura Herrero of Griffith University, symptoms are generally mild and similar to other Omicron strains: “Common symptoms include sore throat, fatigue, fever, mild cough, muscle aches and nasal congestion.”
