The World Health Organization (WHO) has just issued a warning about the increase in COVID-19 cases related to a new variant named NB 1.8.1. This protein is being studied by researchers to decoding the genetic sequence to further assess the characteristics and potential risks.
The WHO says NB 1.8.1 does not pose a greater health risk than previous variants. However, the agency stressed that the continued spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus could lead to new infections in the future, especially as new variants appear and adapt to the community's immunity.
WHO notes that the current trend of increasing COVID-19 cases is in line with the seasonal activity model of the virus. Thanks to the wide range of vaccination and high community immunity, the number of serious cases requiring hospitalization or special care is still limited.
However, WHO continues to classify the general global risk caused by COVID-19 as "high". In the context of theBS 1.8.1 variety spreading, the United Nations health agency called on countries to strengthen their epidemiological surveillance systems, integrate COVID-19 into seasonal respiratory disease prevention strategies, and focus on accurate communication to prevent misinformation.
WHO also encourages people to continue to adhere to precautions, including personal hygiene, wearing masks when necessary and getting fully vaccinated, to ensure safety for themselves and the community as the virus may continue to flare up.
