A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, has been detected in Washington state, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). As of Thursday morning, only one case has been confirmed in the state, which was found through a traveler-based genomic surveillance system at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport.
The World Health Organization has designated this variant as “under monitoring” due to its rapid spread globally, particularly in China. However, local health officials believe it does not lead to more severe illness than current versions of the virus.
Current vaccines are expected to remain effective against NB.1.8.1, and vaccination guidelines have shifted under the Trump administration. The CDC now no longer recommends COVID-19 vaccines for healthy children or pregnant women, limiting eligibility to those over 65 or with specific medical conditions.
Critics argue that these changes are unnecessary and may compromise public health. Washington state data shows that less than one in five residents received a COVID vaccine booster this season.
Source: https://washingtonstatestandard.com/briefs/new-covid-variant-found-in-washington