experts fear is more infectious’ with case numbers growin
New Covid-19 Variant Spreading Worldwide
A new Covid-19 variant called NB.1.8.1 is raising concerns as it spreads quickly across 22 countries, including the UK. Cases have risen notably in places like Wales, Thailand, Ireland, and parts of Europe. Thailand alone recorded 257,280 cases and 52 deaths this year, prompting health warnings.
More Infectious but Not More Severe
Experts say NB.1.8.1 may be more contagious than previous variants. Subhash Verma, a microbiology professor, told CBS News, “Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily. In other words, it is more transmissible.”
WHO’s Assessment and Response
The World Health Organization (WHO) labeled NB.1.8.1 a “variant under monitoring” due to its mutations and rapid global spread. However, the WHO stated that its threat “is low at the global level” and that “currently approved Covid-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective to this variant against symptomatic and severe disease.” The WHO added, “current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation,” and no travel restrictions are recommended.
