A new COVID-19 variant, known as Nimbus or NB.1.8.1, has been detected in Asia and is now spreading in Europe and the United States. This highly contagious strain is expected to cause a surge in cases worldwide.
According to experts, this mutation is not more severe than previous variants, but its high contagion rate makes it a significant concern. “This virus is not more dangerous,” said Dr. Christian Brechot, a professor at the University of South Florida College of Medicine. “The immunity from past variants is going to wane, right?”
Dr. Jill Roberts, an associate professor at the USF College of Public Health, warned that people who didn’t get infected or vaccinated may not have any immunity, making them vulnerable to the new strain.
However, the current COVID-19 vaccines still offer some protection against this new variant. “I think what this new variant illustrates is that COVID-19 is still there,” said Dr. Brechot.
The World Health Organization and medical groups are urging people to stay vaccinated, especially for those who are high-risk. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has expanded warnings about the risk of myocarditis, inflammation of the heart muscle, but experts say the data doesn’t show an increase in complications.
With mixed messages over COVID-19 vaccine recommendations, doctors nationwide are advising people to reach out to their healthcare providers for guidance. The next CDC ACIP meeting is scheduled for June 25-27, and experts will be watching closely for upcoming advisories.
Source: https://www.abcactionnews.com/news/local-news