Identification in France and the US & Public Health Risk
In France, the variant has been identified four times, according to the National Reference Center in Lyon. In the United States, travelers from European countries, including France, tested positive between late April and mid-May. The ECDC has not yet placed the variant under monitoring but is closely tracking its evolution.
Low Public Health Risk but Increased Transmissibility
According to the WHO, the additional public health risk posed by NB.1.8.1 is considered low on a global scale. Nevertheless, observed mutations could increase transmissibility, warranting further studies. Scientists are concerned that these mutations might reduce antibody effectiveness and promote immune evasion.
