A new COVID variant that caused a surge in hospitalizations in Asia is spreading widely in the United States. Health authorities say the new variant, called NB.1.8.1, could now make up over one-third of US COVID infections. In addition, the CDC estimate the new variant could comprise almost half the cases detected in people entering the country through airports. While NB.1.8.1 does not cause more severe disease than previous variant, it is more contagious.
While most healthy adults would benefit from the updated vaccine, infectious disease experts say this layer of protection is even more important for people at increased risk for severe illness, such as people who are elderly, pregnant or diabetic.
