Latest news with #COVID-19NB.1.8.1
Newsweek
28-05-2025
- Health
- Newsweek
COVID-19 NB 1.8.1 Variant: Symptoms To Watch For As Virus Surges
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. A new strain of COVID-19 prevalent in China has been identified in multiple areas in the United States. The new strain—known as COVID-19 NB 1.8.1—was first detected in China in January this year, and on May 23 the World Health Organization (WHO) classified it as a variant "under monitoring," as it is increasing globally. Now the strain has been reported in the US, arriving with international travelers to California, New York City, Virginia and Washington; Other cases have been reported in Hawaii, Ohio and Rhode Island, according to the New York Post. A spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) told Newsweek that the organization "is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners. "There have been fewer than 20 sequences of NB.1.8.1 in the U.S. baseline surveillance data to date, so it has not met the threshold for inclusion in the COVID Data Tracker dashboard. "We monitor all SARS-CoV-2 sequences, and if it increases in proportion, it will appear on the Data Tracker dashboard." Infectious disease expert and CEO of Wellness and Equity Alliance, Dr. Tyler B Evans, explained to Newsweek: "At this point, there's no need for panic, but continued vigilance is critical. "Viruses adapt. That's their job. Ours is to stay prepared. The best defense remains up-to-date vaccination, testing when symptomatic, masking in crowded indoor spaces, and staying home when sick." Pictured: Stock image of a person taking a rapid antigen test for Covid-19, and, inset, stock illustration of a Coronavirus mutation. Pictured: Stock image of a person taking a rapid antigen test for Covid-19, and, inset, stock illustration of a Coronavirus mutation. oatawa/ Images Evans, author of upcoming book Pandemics, Poverty, and Politics Decoding the Social and Political Drivers of Pandemics from Plague to COVID-19, said the new strain is "being monitored as part of the evolving Omicron lineage." When it comes to symptoms of the new NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 strain, he said "there's no clear evidence that this subvariant presents dramatically different symptoms from other recent strains. "We're still seeing common indicators like sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue, and cough. In some cases, especially among unvaccinated or immunocompromised individuals, symptoms can escalate to more severe respiratory distress." According to the CDC, the following symptoms are common with COVID-19 in general: Fever or chills Cough Shortness of breath Sore throat Congestion, runny nose New loss of taste or smell Fatigue Muscle or body aches Headache Nausea or vomiting Diarrhea The CDC warns, however, that this list does not include all possible symptoms, and that symptoms may change with new variants. They said the list will continue to be updated as they learn more about any potential new strains or symptoms. Dr Evans told Newsweek: "If you or a loved one is experiencing difficulty breathing, chest pain, or bluish lips or face, contact your doctor immediately or call 911. Early intervention can save lives. Read more The COVID symptoms to watch for in 2025 The COVID symptoms to watch for in 2025 "Public health guidance hasn't changed, but our attention to it should remain sharp," he said. "Trust the science. Listen to the experts. And above all, stay informed and take care of one another." Currently, the most prevalent COVID-19 variant in the US is the LP.8.1, which made up 70 percent of reported cases between April 26 and May 10, according to the CDC website. The WHO states that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against the NB 1.8.1 variant, and current data does not indicate that it leads to a more severe illness than other variants in circulation. Do you have a tip on a science story that Newsweek should be covering? Do you have a question about immunology? Let us know via science@
American Military News
28-05-2025
- Health
- American Military News
New Chinese Covid strain spreads to US
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has confirmed that a new strand of COVID-19 with a high rate of infection, which has caused a significant increase in hospitalizations in China, has spread to multiple locations in the United States. CBS News reported that the CDC confirmed that the new NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 variant connected to significant spike in COVID-19 cases in China has been detected in different locations throughout the United States. The outlet noted that the earliest U.S. cases of the new COVID-19 strain were detected as part of an international traveler airport screening program in March and April. In a statement obtained by CBS News, a CDC spokesperson said, 'CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners.' In an executive summary shared by The World Health Organization, officials said, 'NB.1.8.1 has been designated a SARS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring (VUM) with increasing proportions globally, while LP.8.1 is starting to decline. Considering the available evidence, the additional public health risk posed by NB.1.8.1 is evaluated as low at the global level.' The World Health Organization added, 'Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalizations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation.' READ MORE: Trump admin investigating fmr. top Democrat over major Covid cover-up: Report According to The New York Post, the CDC has indicated that there are currently not enough cases of the new COVID-19 variant in the United States for the agency's variant estimates to properly track the cases; however, the outlet noted that medical experts have warned that the cases in China point to the virus spreading faster than other strains of the virus. Earlier this month, Hong Kong's government warned that COVID-19 cases had reached a 'one-year high' and that the country was experiencing a 'significant increase' in hospitalizations due to the new strain of COVID-19. Additionally, The New York Post noted that Chinese state media reported that the number of patients in China with COVID-19 infections visiting emergency rooms more than doubled in just one month. Dr. Amy Edwards, a professor of pediatrics, told CBS News, 'What they're seeing in China, Hong Kong and some other areas where this variant has really surged, is an increase in hospitalization.' Dr. Edwin Tsui, the head of Hong Kong's Centre for Health Protection (CHP), warned that the new COVID-19 variant 'should not be taken lightly' and added that the CHP was 'cautious of the possible emergence of more virulent or vaccine-mismatched strains of the virus in the future.'
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
A new Covid variant surging in Asia is now spreading across the US. Here's where it is and what to know
The new Covid variant is continuing to proliferate around the U.S. — although you might not know it by just checking federal variant-tracking dashboards. Known as NB.1.8.1, the omicron variant has been tracked in states across the country following a large surge in China. Although, right now, LP.8.1 — a descendent of JN.1 — is the nation's dominant strain. "CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners," a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told CBS News last week. They reportedly noted that too few U.S. sequences have been reported to be included in its dashboard. But, in Asia, it's resulted in increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits. So, what should Americans know about NB.1.8.1, and how worrying is its spread? Here's what to know. NB.1.8.1 has been designated a SARS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring, with increasing proportions globally, according to the World Health Organization. There are currently six tracked by the agency. It's spread throughout 22 countries. In the U.S., it has been traced to New York, California, Arizona, Ohio and Rhode Island, according to records from local health officials at the CDC's airport testing partner Ginkgo Bioworks. While still low in numbers, the WHO noted that there had been a significant rise in its prevalence from late March to April. The public health risk posed by this variant is evaluated as low at the global level. 'Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalizations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation,' the WHO said. But, while it may not be particularly severe, may infect people more easily than previous variants. There is some evidence that the variant binds more tightly to human cells. "Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily," Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, told CBS News this week. "In other words, it is more transmissible." Yes, our currently-approved Covid shots are expected to remain effective against this variant and protect against severe disease. However, access to the vaccines is being limited by the Trump administration. The Food and Drug Administration said last week that it will continue to approve updates for seniors and Americans with underlying medication conditions. However, it will require vaccine makers to conduct major new clinical trials before approving them for wider use. Although the number of Covid-related hospitalizations and deaths has fallen considerably since the pandemic's start, experts worry about what limiting access to vaccines could do. 'Is the pharmacist going to determine if you're in a high-risk group?' Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, told The Associated Press. 'The only thing that can come of this will make vaccines less insurable and less available.' For now, people can still get the shots.
Time of India
27-05-2025
- Health
- Time of India
How did the new Covid subvariant NB.1.8.1 spread to US and what can you do to prevent it? Details here
A new Covid-19 subvariant NB.1.8.1 has been making headlines across the globe as it has been showing signs of spreading more widely. Numerous cases have been reported in the US following a surge of cases observed in China. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) indicates that this strain has been discovered in international travelers at various US airports. The earliest cases in the US date back to late March and early April, and were detected through a screening program at airports for arriving international travelers. "CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners," a CDC spokesperson told CBS News last week. The spokesperson added that, so far, too few US sequences have been reported of NB.1.8.1 to be included in the agency's variant estimates dashboard. NB.1.8.1 is a newly identified subvariant of the Omicron strain of SARS-CoV-2, the virus responsible for COVID-19. Although the World Health Organization has not designated it as a "variant of concern," health officials are monitoring it closely because of its swift transmission and possible implications for public health. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Alarma con cerradura inteligente gratis en Madrid, instalación en un día Securitas Direct Alarma Ver oferta Undo ALSO READ: Did Harvard reject Barron Trump? Truth behind his college choice has sparks buzz online What are the symptoms of new Covid variant? NB.1.8.1 is associated with symptoms that are "broadly similar to those seen in earlier strains of the virus," Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, told CBS News in an emailed statement. Commonly reported symptoms include respiratory issues such as cough and sore throat, as well as systemic effects like fever and fatigue, he said. Live Events People infected with NB.1.8.1 have reported a variety of symptoms, some of which differ from those seen with earlier versions of the virus. Common early symptoms include: Persistent low-grade hyperthermia: Instead of high fevers, many individuals experience a sustained, mild elevation in body temperature (between 37.6°C and 38.1°C), without the usual signs such as sweating or rapid breathing. This suggests a possible disruption in the body's temperature regulation. ALSO READ: 'Common sense, good science': Trump admin ends Covid vaccine recommendation for healthy kids, pregnant women Upper respiratory symptoms: Similar to other Omicron subvariants, NB.1.8.1 often causes sore throat, cough, runny nose, and mild fever. Gastrointestinal issues: Some people report nausea, reduced appetite, and digestive discomfort. Neurological effects: Headaches, dizziness, and trouble concentrating have been observed in certain cases. Fatigue and malaise: Significant tiredness and muscle weakness have made everyday tasks difficult for some. Sleep disturbances and anxiety: In the UK, some individuals infected with the closely related JN.1 variant have reported experiencing anxiety and trouble sleeping. How did the new Covid strain reach US? Most of the newly identified Covid-19 cases in the United States have been traced back to travelers from nine countries: China, Japan, Vietnam, South Korea, Taiwan, Thailand, France, the Netherlands, and Spain. Testing for the variant was carried out on individuals who voluntarily provided nasal swabs at airports between April 22 and May 12. Health officials have also detected cases of the variant in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii, as well as earlier cases in California and Washington dating back to late March and early April. Despite these findings, there has been no corresponding increase in Covid-19 positivity rates nationwide; in fact, recent data shows a 12% decline in the number of positive test results. ALSO READ: Is Trump targeting Harvard because the elite university rejected his youngest son Barron? What you need to know "Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily," Subash Verma told CBS News. "In other words, it is more transmissible." "What they're seeing in China, Hong Kong and some other areas where this variant has really surged, is an increase in hospitalization, but that seems to be more to do with just a standard summer surge that we've been seeing," Edwards explained, adding the available data is still preliminary, but that the variant "doesn't seem to be more severe," Dr. Amy Edwards, assistant professor of pediatrics at the School of Medicine at Case Western Reserve University said. What about the Covid booster shot? Despite thelatest variant displaying high transmissibility, the Trump administration has ended Covid vaccine recommendation for health kids and pregnant women. Last week, the Food and Drug Administration announced it will continue to authorize updated COVID-19 vaccines for seniors and individuals with underlying health conditions—such as pregnancy or diabetes. However, vaccine manufacturers will now be required to conduct extensive new clinical trials before the vaccines can be approved for broader public use. As a result, many Americans without preexisting conditions may not have access to the updated shots this fall. Verma warned that the new restrictions could have wide-ranging public health consequences. ALSO READ: This US state poised to enforce age verification on Apple, Google app stores for users under 18 "While more than 100 million Americans are still expected to qualify under the new guidelines, the administration's decision adds new hurdles for the general public," he said. "A key concern is that the FDA's requirement for updated clinical trials may delay booster availability for lower-risk individuals, potentially discouraging some from getting vaccinated. The policy could also sow confusion and lower vaccination rates, especially if people are unsure about their eligibility or concerned about insurance coverage—particularly given that some manufacturers plan to charge high prices." Edwards noted that the updated recommendations lack clarity, CBS reported. "Some of the language around pre-existing conditions is quite vague," she said. "It's also unclear which variants will be included in this year's vaccine, especially considering uncertainty about which vaccine trials will move forward." The new COVID-19 vaccine policy was introduced by the FDA under the leadership of Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., who has previously expressed skepticism about vaccines. "Secretary Kennedy has said, 'We're not taking away your vaccines; we're going to be transparent.' But in reality, access is being restricted," said Dr. Céline Gounder, a CBS News medical contributor and editor-at-large for public health at KFF Health News, in an interview with "CBS Mornings Plus" following the FDA's announcement. ALSO READ: Memorial Day storm threat grows as millions again at risk of severe weather in Texas; over 200,000 without power Prevention tips Given the potential for NB.1.8.1 to spread quickly, particularly among international travelers, health authorities advise the following preventive measures: Stay Up to Date on Vaccinations: Ensure your COVID-19 vaccinations, including any recommended booster doses, are current to lower the risk of severe illness. Wear Masks in High-Risk Settings: Use face masks in crowded or enclosed spaces to help reduce the spread of the virus. Practice Good Hand Hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, or use hand sanitizer when soap isn't available, to reduce infection risk. Monitor for Symptoms: Stay alert for symptoms and seek medical care promptly if they appear. Self-Isolate if Sick: If you experience symptoms, isolate yourself to avoid transmitting the virus to others.
Yahoo
27-05-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
A new Covid variant surging in Asia is now spreading across the US. Here's where it is and what to know
The new Covid variant is continuing to proliferate around the U.S. — although you might not know it by just checking federal variant-tracking dashboards. Known as NB.1.8.1, the omicron variant has been tracked in states across the country following a large surge in China. Although, right now, LP.8.1 — a descendent of JN.1 — is the nation's dominant strain. "CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners," a spokesperson for the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention told CBS News last week. They reportedly noted that too few U.S. sequences have been reported to be included in its dashboard. But, in Asia, it's resulted in increased hospitalizations and emergency room visits. So, what should Americans know about NB.1.8.1, and how worrying is its spread? Here's what to know. NB.1.8.1 has been designated a SARS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring, with increasing proportions globally, according to the World Health Organization. There are currently six tracked by the agency. It's spread throughout 22 countries. In the U.S., it has been traced to New York, California, Arizona, Ohio and Rhode Island, according to records from local health officials at the CDC's airport testing partner Ginkgo Bioworks. While still low in numbers, the WHO noted that there had been a significant rise in its prevalence from late March to April. The public health risk posed by this variant is evaluated as low at the global level. 'Despite a concurrent increase in cases and hospitalizations in some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness than other variants in circulation,' the WHO said. But, while it may not be particularly severe, may infect people more easily than previous variants. There is some evidence that the variant binds more tightly to human cells. "Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily," Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, told CBS News this week. "In other words, it is more transmissible." Yes, our currently-approved Covid shots are expected to remain effective against this variant and protect against severe disease. However, access to the vaccines is being limited by the Trump administration. The Food and Drug Administration said last week that it will continue to approve updates for seniors and Americans with underlying medication conditions. However, it will require vaccine makers to conduct major new clinical trials before approving them for wider use. Although the number of Covid-related hospitalizations and deaths has fallen considerably since the pandemic's start, experts worry about what limiting access to vaccines could do. 'Is the pharmacist going to determine if you're in a high-risk group?' Dr. Paul Offit, a vaccine expert at Children's Hospital of Philadelphia, told The Associated Press. 'The only thing that can come of this will make vaccines less insurable and less available.' For now, people can still get the shots.
