A new COVID-19 variant known as NB. 1.8.1 has been detected among international travelers arriving at airports in four states, including New York, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). The variant has caused a rise in cases and hospitalizations in Hong Kong and Taiwan.
While the variant does not appear to cause more severe illness than other strains, state Health Department officials said it is more contagious. Cases have been reported in New York, Virginia, California, Washington state, Rhode Island, Hawaii, and Ohio.
Health experts warn that new variants can emerge rapidly, but prior COVID exposure, including previous vaccinations, provide some level of protection. Pfizer and Moderna have recommended switching to a new COVID formula for the fall and winter seasons, which would boost protection against NB. 1.8.1.
The FDA has announced plans to limit approval for seasonal COVID shots to adults 65 and older, along with children and younger adults with at least one high-risk health problem. Health agencies must be flexible to adjust for changing conditions, according to Dr. Bruce Farber, chief of public health and epidemiology at Northwell Health.
As of last month, COVID deaths in the US have ranged from a high of 73 during the week ending September 21 to as low as 10 during the week ending December 14.
Source: https://www.newsday.com/news/health/coronavirus/covid-19-new-variants-vaccine-new-york-pn3mzd1i