A new, fast-spreading Omicron subvariant, NB.1.8.1, has been detected across the US, raising concerns about a potential summer spike in infections in North Carolina. The World Health Organization reports that the variant has spread to 20 countries, including the US, with fewer than 20 reported cases nationwide.
According to Dr. David Weber, an infectious disease specialist at UNC School of Medicine, the variant is more contagious due to a specific mutation in one of its spike proteins. While vaccines offer protection, health officials are recommending a fall booster for lasting defense.
Weber stated that there have been surges in COVID cases in the summer before, and it’s possible that this new variant could lead to another surge. However, he also noted that the transmissibility of the variant is not yet clear and may be lower than expected.
The symptoms of NB.1.8.1 are similar to other COVID-19 variants, including fever, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, and muscle aches. Current vaccines should provide protection against the new variant, but health officials recommend waiting until fall to get vaccinated if possible.
To protect yourself against COVID, experts recommend wearing masks, getting vaccinated, taking early therapies, staying safe through traditional measures, and seeking medical attention if symptoms appear.
Source: https://www.charlotteobserver.com/news/state/north-carolina/article307792070.html