Global Virus Network issues guidance on new Covid-19 variant, vaccine protection

India Today

a day ago

The newly identified Covid-19 variant, named NB.1.8.1, is spreading rapidly across parts of Asia including India and other regions such as the United States.While the variant has sparked concern due to its rising numbers, global health experts are urging caution, not panic.The Global Virus Network (GVN) - an international coalition of top virologists and research centres - which is closely tracking the situation, says there is no current evidence that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than earlier variants.advertisement
However, its growing presence has led the World Health Organisation (WHO) to list it as a 'Variant Under Monitoring.'The variant, a sub-lineage of the Omicron family, was first detected in January 2025 and has now been found in 22 countries.As of May 18, 2025, NB.1.8.1 accounted for 10.7% of global Covid-19 virus samples submitted to the international database GISAID, global science initiative and primary source for freely sharing genomic data of viruses, especially influenza viruses.
There is no current evidence that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than earlier variants. ()
This is a sharp rise from just 2.5% four weeks earlier. In India, active Covid-19 cases have climbed to 6,491 (as of June 9), with more than 500 new infections reported in the past 24 hours.advertisementStates such as Delhi, Kerala, Gujarat, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal are reporting steady increases in cases.Other countries are also seeing a rise. In Taiwan, hospital visits due to Covid-19 symptoms rose by 78% in one week, with nearly 6,000 people seeking care between April 27 and May 3.In the United States, more than a dozen cases of NB.1.8.1 have been reported, initially detected through airport screenings in California, Washington, Virginia, and New York. The variant has since been found in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii.Despite the rise in infections, experts say the pattern remains consistent with seasonal surges, and vaccines continue to provide strong protection against serious illness.WHAT WE KNOW ABOUT NB.1.8.1NB.1.8.1 shares many characteristics with previous Omicron variants, including mutations in the spike protein that help the virus spread more easily.
NB.1.8.1 shares many characteristics with previous Omicron variants, including mutations in the spike protein that help the virus spread more easily. ()
But early studies show it does not lead to more severe disease or significantly escape the protection offered by vaccines or past infection.advertisement"Breakthrough infections may happen, especially in people with waning immunity or those who are unvaccinated. But vaccines remain highly effective in preventing hospitalisation and death," the GVN stated.Existing treatments like Paxlovid (nirmatrelvir/ritonavir) and remdesivir also continue to work well against this and other Omicron subvariants.VACCINATION REMAINS KEYIn its latest guidelines, the coalition emphasised the importance of staying up to date with Covid-19 vaccinations, especially as the virus evolves.Here are the GVN's updated vaccine recommendations:Adults over 65 and those with underlying health issues should get an updated booster tailored to current variants.Everyone aged 6 months and older is encouraged to remain current with vaccinations, particularly before the respiratory illness seasons in autumn and winter.Children and teenagers should receive age-appropriate vaccine doses if they haven't been vaccinated in the past year. This helps prevent complications like hospitalisation or MIS-C (a serious inflammatory condition in children).Pregnant individuals are strongly advised to get vaccinated. According to GVN, studies show that Covid-19 vaccination during pregnancy reduces hospitalisation risk in infants by 61% and helps protect the newborn for up to six months. It also lowers the risks of preterm birth and other complications.advertisementPeople who haven't received a Covid-19 booster in the past year should speak with their doctor about timing and eligibility. Co-administering Covid-19 and flu vaccines is safe and recommended when needed. Side effects from both vaccines remain rare.NO CAUSE FOR ALARMHealth authorities are clear: the emergence of new variants like NB.1.8.1 is expected and does not mean we are entering a new emergency.'This is not a reason to panic, but a moment to prepare,' the GVN said. The key lies in continued vigilance, accurate public information, and strong global cooperation.GVN and WHO are encouraging nations to maintain timely virus tracking and share data to support early detection and response.While NB.1.8.1 is spreading, the tools we have, vaccines, treatments, and knowledge, are still effective.WHAT YOU CAN DOFor the public, experts recommend continuing to follow good health practices:advertisementStay up to date with Covid-19 vaccines.Wear a mask in crowded indoor spaces if cases are rising in your area.Practice good hand hygiene.Stay home if you feel sick and get tested if symptoms appear.Consult your doctor about booster shots or antiviral treatment if you are at higher risk.As Covid-19 continues to evolve, health agencies worldwide are shifting from emergency response to long-term management. That includes regular vaccination updates, like with influenza, and clear communication to avoid misinformation and panic."Scientific collaboration, accurate public communication, and continued investment in prevention tools will remain critical in navigating the evolving Covid-19 landscape," said GVN.Tune InMust Watch