A new Covid-19 variant, known as NB.1.8.1, has been identified in Washington state, contributing to an increase in global Covid-19 cases. According to the Washington State Department of Health, the variant was detected in a sample taken on May 15 at Seattle-Tacoma International Airport. As of now, this is the only confirmed case in the state, and it remains unclear whether the individual was a resident or a visitor. This detection was part of the CDC’s Traveler-based Genomic Surveillance program, which utilizes voluntary nasal swabs and wastewater samples from various U.S. airports.
The World Health Organization has labeled this variant as one “under monitoring,” indicating that while its spread is being observed, it does not appear to cause more severe illness than previous strains of the virus. Local health officials share this sentiment. Dr. Herbert Duber, a regional medical officer with the state Department of Health, expressed that there is generally low concern regarding the new variant, emphasizing the importance of continued monitoring in light of new variants emerging.
Despite the spike in cases associated with NB.1.8.1 in other countries, such as China, current vaccines are expected to remain effective against this variant. This development comes amidst changes in vaccination guidelines announced by the U.S. Health and Human Services Secretary, which recently stated that the CDC would not recommend the Covid vaccine for healthy children or pregnant women. Eligibility for the vaccine has now been limited to individuals over 65 or those with specific medical risk factors.
This situation underscores the need for vigilance and adaptation in public health strategies to manage Covid-19 as it evolves.