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May 29, 2025 — The World Health Organization (WHO) has reported a rise in COVID-19 cases in several regions worldwide, with a newly identified variant, NB.1.8.1, believed to be contributing to the increase. The surge is most pronounced in the eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions, according to a statement released by the WHO on Wednesday.
International Spread and U.S. Detection
Airport screening in the United States has identified the NB.1.8.1 variant in travelers arriving from affected regions, with cases detected in California, Washington state, Virginia, and New York. This underscores the ongoing importance of international surveillance and border screening as new variants emerge.
Variant Classification and Vaccine Effectiveness
The NB.1.8.1 variant has been designated by the WHO as a “variant under monitoring.” By mid-May, it accounted for nearly 11% of sequenced COVID-19 samples globally. Despite the uptick in cases, the WHO currently assesses the public health risk from NB.1.8.1 as low. Existing COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against this variant.
Disease Severity and Hospitalizations
While some western Pacific countries have reported increases in both COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, the WHO notes there is no evidence so far that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness compared to previous variants.
Changing U.S. Vaccination Recommendations
The emergence of NB.1.8.1 comes as the United States revises its COVID-19 vaccination guidelines. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on Tuesday that COVID-19 vaccinations are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women. This policy shift has sparked debate among public health experts, many of whom urge continued caution and vaccination for vulnerable populations.
Current Dominant Variant
Despite the rise of NB.1.8.1, the LP.8.1 variant remains the dominant strain in both the United States and globally.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on information from the World Health Organization and recent news reports as of May 29, 2025. COVID-19 is an evolving situation, and guidance may change as new data becomes available. For the latest updates and personalized medical advice, readers are encouraged to consult official health authorities and their healthcare providers.
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