A new coronavirus variant, NB.1.8.1, is spreading globally and has been identified as the cause of a resurgence in Covid-19 cases in China and several Asian countries. Experts predict a possible increase in cases in Europe.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention report that this variant already represents about one-third of new Covid-19 cases as of June 7. This is a significant increase from just a month before, when it represented only 5% of new cases.
CNN wellness expert Dr. Leana Wen discussed the implications of this new variant with CNN. According to Wen, experts should ask three questions: Is it causing more severe disease? Is it more contagious? And do existing vaccines still work against it?
The World Health Organization has deemed the new strain a “variant under monitoring,” but surveillance data do not show an increase in severity compared to previously circulating variants. However, it’s possible that this variant could be more contagious.
As for whether existing vaccines work against this variant, Wen stated that there is currently no conclusive evidence. The answer may become clearer as federal health officials decide on the formulation of this fall’s updated Covid-19 vaccine.
Symptoms of N.B.1.8.1 infection appear to be similar to those of other variants and can range from mild allergy-like symptoms to severe illness requiring hospitalization. Long Covid is also a concern for some individuals who contract Covid-19.
Wen warned that another summer wave could occur, triggered by this new variant or declining population immunity. The emergence of this new strain combined with less recent Covid-19 activity could start a wave in the next couple of months.
To reduce their risk of contracting Covid-19, people should take the same precautions they’ve been following throughout the pandemic, such as wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and avoiding high-risk situations when visiting vulnerable individuals.
Source: https://edition.cnn.com/2025/06/19/health/virus-covid-variant-summer-wellness