Spread of NB.1.8.1 in Asia
Originating in China, the NB.1.8.1 Covid-19 variant has quickly spread across Asia, reaching regions such as Hong Kong, where a significant rebound in cases has been observed. This Omicron sublineage, known for its high transmissibility, was classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a “variant under monitoring” on May 23. This classification, introduced in 2020, is reserved for variants posing an increased risk to public health.
Important Mutations of the NB.1.8.1 Variant
Professor Yves Buisson, a member of the French National Academy of Medicine, highlighted that NB.1.8.1 has “three fairly significant mutations” compared to its predecessor, which could make it the dominant variant in the future. Virologist Bruno Lina told BFMTV that the variant’s characteristics could allow it to become dominant. In Asia, particularly in Taiwan, the National Disease Center reported a 66% increase in Covid-19-related consultations in just one week. To continue, see next page…
