New COVID Subvariant Spreads as Vaccine Focus Shifts
A new, highly transmissible COVID subvariant, NB.1.8.1, has been detected in California, raising concerns of a potential summer surge. Simultaneously, recent federal actions have rescinded recommendations for COVID-19 vaccination in pregnant women and healthy children under 65, potentially limiting vaccine access and increasing costs. This decision, opposed by many experts, could lead to reduced vaccination rates and increased vulnerability to the new subvariant. While NB.1.8.1 doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness, its higher transmissibility is a significant concern, particularly given the potential for reduced vaccine uptake. Experts warn that the changes could place a larger financial burden on individuals seeking vaccination.
John Q. Hosedrinker