New strain raises global concerns
And, as we head into the cold winter months, a new variant is causing concern in China, where it's led to an increase in hospitalisations.
The World Health Organisation has designated this new strain, NB.1.8.1, as a 'variant under monitoring'.
Is there cause for concern?
Prof Tulio de Oliveira, director at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation, said this variant is part of the omicron family.
"It is identified as a variant, and we are monitoring this is the lowest level we have on the WHO," he said.
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Text Color White Black Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Background Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Opaque Semi-Transparent Transparent Window Color Black White Red Green Blue Yellow Magenta Cyan Transparency Transparent Semi-Transparent Opaque Font Size 50% 75% 100% 125% 150% 175% 200% 300% 400% Text Edge Style None Raised Depressed Uniform Dropshadow Font Family Proportional Sans-Serif Monospace Sans-Serif Proportional Serif Monospace Serif Casual Script Small Caps Reset restore all settings to the default values Done Close Modal Dialog End of dialog window. Next Stay Close ✕ With over 7,000 cases reported, authorities are implementing measures reminiscent of the pandemic. Image: Saeed Saeed/pexels Not another lockdown, but a wake-up call. Though the virus itself isn't new, the scale of the response in China is catching attention worldwide. 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"The variant causing concern originated in Réunion Island in March, leading to a significant outbreak with nearly 50 000 infections. While it also spread to Mauritius, effective measures helped control it there." He added, 'This variant has mutations that allow it to spread more easily through certain mosquito species.' 'Climate change and rising temperatures are expanding the areas where mosquitoes thrive, which could lead to more chikungunya cases. ' He urged vigilance as the situation evolves, especially with the potential for more introductions of the virus into South Africa as the seasons change. How to protect yourself Use mosquito repellent daily, especially in humid, rainy seasons. Install mosquito screens on windows and doors. Sleep under mosquito nets, especially if you live near standing water. Wear long sleeves and pants if you're outside at dawn or dusk. Eliminate stagnant water in plant pots, buckets, or outdoor containers. 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