A new variant of Covid-19, NB.1.8.1, is shaking global health authorities as it spreads rapidly across the globe.
Spread of the NB.1.8.1 variant in Asia (1/12)
The NB.1.8.1 variant of Covid-19 appeared in China and spread rapidly across Asia, reaching regions such as Hong Kong where a significant rebound in the epidemic was observed. This sub-lineage of the Omicron variant, known for its high contagiousness, was classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a ‘variant under surveillance’ on May 23. This classification, created in 2020, is reserved for variants presenting an increased risk to public health.
Significant mutations of the NB.1.8.1 variant (2/12)
Professor Yves Buisson, a member of the National Academy of Medicine, pointed out that NB.1.8.1 has ‘three fairly significant mutations’ compared to its predecessor, which could make it the majority in the future. For his part, virologist Bruno Lina told BFMTV that the specificities of this variant could make it dominant. In Asia, particularly in Taiwan, the National Center for Diseases reported a 66% increase in consultations related to Covid-19 in one week.
Appearance of the NB.1.8.1 variant in Europe and the United States (3/12)
In Europe, the NB.1.8.1 variant has appeared in Germany, Ireland and the Netherlands, with France recording its first cases in March. According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), the variant has been circulating since the beginning of April, but its epidemiological impact remains uncertain. In the United States, cases have been detected in international travelers arriving in several states, including California and New York.
WHO reassures on the effectiveness of vaccines (4/12)
The WHO has reassured the public that the current Covid-19 vaccines should remain effective against this variant to prevent symptomatic and severe forms of the disease. However, it calls for vigilance, especially in Asia where the variant has become dominant. Hong Kong reported that key Covid-19 surveillance indicators were at their highest level in a year, prompting authorities to tighten hygiene measures.
Increase in positive test rates in Hong Kong (5/12)
The percentage of respiratory samples testing positive for SARS-CoV-2 in Hong Kong has doubled in one month, from 6.21% to 13.66%. In addition, the viral load in wastewater has almost doubled, reaching 710,000 copies/litre. Despite these alarming numbers, there is no indication at this time that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe forms of the disease.
of the NB.1.8.1 variant in France and the United States (6/12)
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 the end of April and mid-May. The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control has not yet placed the variant under surveillance, but is monitoring its evolution closely.
Low risk to public health but increased transmissibility (7/12)
According to the WHO, the additional risk to public health posed by NB.1.8.1 is considered low globally. Nevertheless, the mutations observed could increase its transmissibility, which requires further studies. Scientists are concerned that these mutations could reduce the effectiveness of antibodies and promote immune evasion.
Rapid growth of the NB.1.8.1 variant (8/12)
Virologist Bruno Lina explained that the variant could have a growth advantage, as it penetrates cells faster and reproduces more efficiently. These characteristics could make NB.1.8.1 the dominant variant in the future, although more research is needed to confirm these hypotheses.
Surveillance of the NB.1.8.1 variant (9/12)
The surveillance of this variant by the WHO has revived memories of the emergence of SARS-CoV-2, the origin of which remains uncertain. Global health authorities are calling for vigilance, while reminding that current vaccines are still an effective defense against severe forms of the disease.
Global tracking of the NB.1.8.1 variant (10/12)
Scientists around the world are closely monitoring the evolution of NB.1.8.1, seeking to fully understand its potential impact on public health. Although the variant is not yet dominant, its rapid progression and worrying mutations warrant sustained attention.
Dynamic situation of the NB.1.8.1 variant (11/12)
The WHO has stressed that current data do not show that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe disease than other circulating variants. However, the situation remains dynamic, and health authorities continue to closely monitor developments.
surveillance of the NB.1.8.1 variant (12/12)
In conclusion, although the NB.1.8.1 variant is not yet a major threat, its rapid spread and mutations require continuous surveillance. Vaccines remain our best defence, and public health measures must be strengthened to limit its spread.
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