A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, is driving a surge in infections globally, with cases now reported in 22 countries, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO).⁹
As of 18 May, WHO data shows that scientists had identified 518 cases of NB.1.8.1 in laboratory samples from affected nations. The variant, described as a sub-variant of Omicron, now accounts for around 10% of global infections.
The South African Medical Association’s chairperson, Dr Mvuyisi Mzukwa, confirmed that while the variant has been detected in countries including China, Hong Kong, the USA, Australia, and Thailand, no cases have been reported in Africa so far.
“What we do know is that it spreads more easily,” Mzukwa said. “It’s more dominant in China, Hong Kong, but also in the USA, Australia, Thailand, and other countries.”
Despite rising case numbers and hospitalisations in some regions, WHO reports that there is currently no evidence that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than previous strains.
In India, health officials have recorded over 4,000 active cases linked to the variant in the past 24 hours, with five deaths reported.
Mzukwa noted that COVID-19 in South Africa remains in its endemic phase, with low levels of circulation. “We still have it, but in very low numbers,” he said. “The vaccines are expected to remain effective and protect from getting severe symptoms.”
However, Mzukwa advised that individuals with underlying medical conditions, such as kidney failure, should consider getting a new COVID-19 vaccine, especially if it has been more than two years since their last vaccination.
