This is what the WHO says about the new COVID-19 variant

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that cases of the new NB.1-8-1 variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus have been identified in the United States.

This strain, recently linked to an increase in infections in China, was detected in the United States through the surveillance system installed at airports targeting international passengers. According to the official report, the first cases were identified between late March and early April.

For its part, the World Health Organization (WHO) issued a health alert following the increase in infections linked to this variant. The agency noted that NB.1-8-1 has mutations that could facilitate its spread.

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In response to the concerns raised on social media by some sectors of the population, Dr. Francisco Moreno, Internist and Infectious Disease Specialist, spoke out through a post on the X platform.

In his message, the specialist—who received the National Health Award in 2020—explained that, although the NB.1-8-1 variant is new, its symptoms resemble those caused by other subvariants of the Omicron strain. According to him, in most cases, symptoms similar to those of a common respiratory condition appear.

He also emphasized that the mode of transmission remains airborne, which means current preventive measures remain effective.

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He also mentioned that current diagnostic tests are capable of detecting this subvariant and that there has been no change in the clinical protocol; therefore, he emphasized that there is no need for concern.

Following this post, users agreed that there's no need to raise alarm, although preventive recommendations should be reinforced.

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