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Business Standard
2 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
Pune scientists isolating Covid sub-variants behind India's new cases
Amid the recent rise of new Covid cases in India, the National Institute of Virology (NIV) on Wednesday said it is conducting genome sequencing and isolating four new sub-variants of the Omicron virus that are believed to be responsible for the new outbreak. Genome sequencing is the process of determining the complete DNA sequence of an organism, giving scientists information about the reproduction, evolution and functions of the organism. This effort will help in assessing vaccine effectiveness and whether a new vaccine needs to be developed, said Dr Naveen Kumar, director of the Pune-based NIV, which operates under the aegis of the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). An upsurge of Covid cases has been reported since the second week of April this year, beginning in southeast Asia. "Scientists at NIV are doing monitoring, genome sequencing and isolating the new variants. The strain which was circulating in Singapore was also found in India five to six weeks ago," Dr Kumar said. "Isolation is important to replace the existing vaccine strain if at all it is required. Whether or not this needs to be replaced is something which is to be critically analysed based on the severity of the disease. So far, it appears that the strains are not much severe. However, the decision of making a new vaccine using the currently circulating strains is taken by policymakers after extensive discussion." Kumar said that after genome sequencing of samples across India, four sub-variants of Omicron - LF.7, XFG, JN.1.16 and NB.1.8.1 - have been found. Genomic analysis revealed that the surge was due to the JN.1.16 sub-lineage of the Omicron variant, and since May, it was replaced by the XFG (LF.7 and LP.81.2) recombinant variant. Whole genome sequences have been submitted to the Indian Biological Data Centre and the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data, Kumar said. Currently, two monovalent Omicron-based vaccines are available: Biological E's Corbivax and Serum Institute of India's COVOVAX. The Covid caseload in the country saw a marginal dip on Wednesday, with 6,483 active cases compared to 6,837 cases on Tuesday. Since 1 January, 113 deaths due to Covid-19 have been reported, primarily among individuals with pre-existing conditions. Kerala has seen the steepest dip in caseload; however, it remains the most-affected state, followed by Gujarat, Karnataka and Delhi, according to data released by the Ministry of Health. Medical experts believe that the current upsurge in cases is a 'mini wave', as the virus is behaving more like a seasonal flu now. They also believe that such seasonal flus will become more common in the near future.
NDTV
3 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Nimbus: All About New Covid Variant That Causes "Razor Blade Throat"
The World Health Organisation (WHO) is closely monitoring a fresh rise in global Covid-19 cases, driven largely by a new variant - Nimbus (NB.1.8.1). First identified in January 2025, this sub-variant of Omicron is now spreading rapidly across several countries. Cases in the US and UK According to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID), the NB.1.8.1 variant has been detected in at least 13 US states, including California, New York, New Jersey, and Illinois. In the UK, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported a 10% jump in hospital admissions, with 947 patients admitted in the week ending May 31. Asia Sees a Surge Too Rising infections have also been reported in parts of Asia - notably China, Singapore, Thailand, and India. In India, Covid-linked deaths crossed 100 on Monday, triggering concern among health authorities. However, cases of this variant have not been reported so far. What is the Nimbus variant? Designated as NB.1.8.1, the Nimbus strain is a descendant of Omicron. WHO has listed it among six variants under close observation. Symptoms: What to Watch For The symptoms are similar to other Omicron sub-variants. As per the CDC, they include: Cough Fever Fatigue Muscle aches Congestion Headache Nausea or vomiting New loss of smell or taste In rare cases, patients have reported a condition described as "razor blade throat". Dr Ankita Baidya, HOD and Consultant - Infectious Diseases at Manipal Hospital Dwarka, told NDTV: "It is not necessary that they are going to give you a deadly disease." "This time we see a sense of loss of taste and smell along with normal viral-like symptoms like fever, cough, and cold, and other flu-like symptoms like sore throat and running nose. Headache and body ache is also noted." Is Nimbus Dangerous? The WHO, in its latest risk assessment, said the global public health risk from NB.1.8.1 remains "low". Current vaccines are expected to remain effective against both symptomatic and severe disease from this variant. Between April 21 and 27, Nimbus accounted for 10.7% of globally sequenced cases, with 518 sequences from 22 countries. Dr Baidya added: "Nimbus has been a fast-spreading strain since January 2025 and this variation has been noticed that though it's spreading fast among people it's not that deadlier as such, causing mild to moderate disease only." She also flagged another variant Besides Nimbus, another variant that has also caused concern among people is XFG, nicknamed "Stratus". It is not currently designated for monitoring by the WHO. "Stratus is right now again under scrutiny that it's also spreading fast but if we compare the number of cases that we have seen with Nimbus strain after sequencing identified as Nimbus strain, the status cases are comparatively less," Dr Baidya said. "But yes, these two variants are currently the most circulating variant and right now Nimbus is also under monitoring according to WHO, seeing how the pattern of disease and its pattern of spread is being studied simultaneously," she added.
Yahoo
05-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
Global Virus Network Issues Scientific Guidance on New COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 and Vaccine Protection
Scientific collaboration, accurate public communication, and continued investment in prevention tools are critical in navigating the evolving COVID-19 landscape TAMPA, Fla., June 05, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Global Virus Network (GVN) is closely monitoring the emergence of a newly identified SARS-CoV-2 variant, NB.1.8.1, a sublineage of the Omicron family. This variant was first identified in January 2025 and has rapidly spread across Asia and into other regions, including parts of the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated NB.1.8.1 as a Variant Under Monitoring due to its increasing prevalence and potential public health implications. Based on current evidence, GVN advises vigilance, not alarm, and reinforces the critical role of vaccination in preventing severe disease and death. Similar to previous Omicron subvariants, NB.1.8.1 contains spike protein mutations associated with increased transmissibility. However, no evidence suggests that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness or significantly evades vaccine-induced or natural immunity. Early laboratory and clinical data indicate that updated COVID-19 vaccines, including bivalent and XBB-based boosters, protect against severe outcomes such as hospitalization and death. There is no evidence at this time that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness than previous variants. Breakthrough infections may occur, particularly among individuals with waning immunity or those who are unvaccinated. Nevertheless, vaccines remain highly effective in reducing serious illness and death. Antiviral treatments such as nirmatrelvir/ritonavir (Paxlovid) and remdesivir demonstrate efficacy against a range of Omicron subvariants, including BQ.1, BQ.1.1, and XBB.1.5. NB.1.8.1 has been linked to significant increases in COVID-19 cases across several countries. According to the WHO, as of May 18, 2025, the NB.1.8.1 variant has been identified in 22 countries, accounting for 10.7% of global SARS-CoV-2 sequences submitted to the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID) during epidemiological week 17 (April 21–27, 2025). This marks a significant increase from 2.5% four weeks prior. As of June 4, 2025, India reported 4,302 active COVID-19 infections, with nearly 300 new cases recorded within the previous 24 hours. States such as Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal, Gujarat, and especially Kerala have experienced a steady rise in cases. During the week of April 27 to May 3, 2025, nearly 6,000 individuals in Taiwan sought medical assistance at hospitals due to COVID-19-related symptoms. This marked a 78% increase from the previous week and represented the fourth consecutive week of rising case numbers. As of early June 2025, in the U.S., more than a dozen cases of the NB.1.8.1 subvariant have been identified in Washington State. The variant was first detected in the U.S. between late March and early April through routine screenings of international travelers at airports in California, Washington State, Virginia, and New York. Subsequent cases have been reported in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii. In the U.S., there have been about 300 deaths per week from COVID-19 in 2025 through May. Periodic summer surges are anticipated, consistent with seasonal patterns observed in previous years. GVN Supports the Following COVID-19 Vaccine Recommendations: Adults aged 65 and older, and individuals with underlying conditions, should receive an updated COVID-19 booster tailored to circulating variants. All individuals 6 months and older, including children and adolescents, are encouraged to stay current with vaccinations, especially ahead of the fall and winter respiratory seasons. Children 6 months to 17 years of age should receive an age-appropriate, updated COVID-19 vaccine dose if they have not already done so within the past year, as protection from earlier vaccines may wane over time. Pediatric vaccination helps prevent severe outcomes, including hospitalization and multisystem inflammatory syndrome in children (MIS-C). Pregnant individuals are strongly encouraged to stay current on COVID-19 vaccination. Vaccination during pregnancy reduces the risk of COVID-19 hospitalization in infants by 61% and protects newborns for up to six months after birth—an especially important window given the high rate of emergency department visits for COVID-19 among infants. Studies have consistently shown that infection during pregnancy increases the risk of preterm birth, miscarriage, fetal death, and long-term neurodevelopmental issues. No safety concerns have been identified regarding vaccination in pregnancy or neonatal outcomes. Those not receiving a COVID-19 booster in the past year should consult a healthcare provider about updated vaccine timing and eligibility. Co-administration of COVID-19 and influenza vaccines is recommended when appropriate. Side effects from both COVID-19 and influenza vaccines are rare, and the cost-benefit of vaccination is heavily in favor of vaccination. The principal benefits of vaccination are preventing severe disease, rather than preventing infection itself. The rapid global spread of NB.1.8.1 underscores the ongoing need for proactive surveillance, timely data sharing, and pandemic preparedness. The appearance of new variants is expected and does not signal a public health emergency. Instead, it is a call to action for continued scientific vigilance and proactive health measures. GVN reiterates that this is an opportunity to prepare, not a reason to panic. Scientific collaboration, accurate public communication, and continued investment in prevention tools will remain critical in navigating the evolving COVID-19 landscape. Media Contact: Nora Samaranayakensamaranayake@ About the Global Virus Network The Global Virus Network (GVN) is a worldwide coalition comprising 80+ Virology Centers of Excellence and Affiliates across 40+ countries, whose mission is to facilitate pandemic preparedness against viral pathogens and diseases that threaten public health globally. GVN advances knowledge of viruses through (i) data-driven research and solutions, (ii) fostering the next generation of virology leaders, and (iii) enhancing global resources for readiness and response to emerging viral threats. GVN provides the essential expertise required to discover and diagnose viruses that threaten public health, understand how such viruses spread illnesses, and facilitate the development of diagnostics, therapies, and treatments to combat them. GVN coordinates and collaborates with local, national, and international scientific institutions and government agencies to provide real-time virus informatics, surveillance, and response resources and strategies. GVN's pandemic preparedness mission is achieved by focusing on Education & Training, Qualitative & Quantitative Research, and Global Health Strategies & Solutions. The GVN is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. For more information, please visit in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
NDTV
26-05-2025
- Health
- NDTV
US Reports Cases Of New COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 Linked To Surge In China
Washington: Several cases of the new COVID-19 variant-- which has been linked to a large surge of viral infection in China-- have been detected at US airports, according to Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Cases linked to the NB.1.8.1 variant of COVID-19 were detected through the CDC's airport screening program in foreign travellers arriving at airports in Washington state, California, the New York City area and Virginia, according to CBS News. According to data available on the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data (GISAID), most of the cases are stemming from travellers from countries, including Japan, South Korea, France, China, and others. The testing was done between April 22 and May 12. Moreover, cases of the NB.1.8.1 variant have also been reported in other US states, including Ohio, Rhode Island and Hawaii, the CBS report said. These cases are reportedly separate from the airport cases. Health authorities in the US are now closely monitoring the variant, which is now dominant in China and is on the rise in parts of Asia, including Hong Kong, where Covid-19 cases have climbed to the worst levels seen in at least a year. Early studies show that NB.1.8.1-- which is part of the JN.1 group of variants-- may spread more easily than other variants. However, it doesn't seem to cause severe illness, and many vaccines in the market already target it. Cases Low In The US For Now "CDC is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China and is in regular contact with international partners," a spokesperson of the American health agency said in a statement. However, in a separate statement to Fox News Digital, the CDC spokesperson said that there have been fewer than 20 sequences of NB.1.8.1 in the US baseline surveillance data to date, so it has not met the threshold for inclusion in the COVID Data Tracker dashboard. "We monitor all SARS-CoV-2 sequences, and if it increases in proportion, it will appear on the Data Tracker dashboard," they said. Meanwhile, authorities in the US are also monitoring a variant called XFC, which has been significantly growing in the country. Authorities have warned that the evolution of the virus has been unpredictable, even as the US has settled into a relatively predictable pattern of two surges a year-- once in the summer and once over the winter. COVID-19 Deaths Are High Per the CDC's data, coronavirus infection has killed an average of 350 Americans every week over the last month. The agency said that while the casualties are significant, infections are declining and are less than the peak of 25,974 deaths that took place in the week ending January 9, 2021, as well as weekly deaths that occurred in prior spring months. The experts said that some of the high death rates in the US due to viral infection may be attributed to low vaccination uptake, waning immunity and not enough people accessing treatments.
Economic Times
24-05-2025
- Health
- Economic Times
Is China suppressing the spread of COVID variant NB.1.8.1? Virus is spreading - here's what Americans should do
Is China downplaying its COVID surge? Live Events Will current vaccines protect against Covid variant NB.1.8.1? FAQs (You can now subscribe to our (You can now subscribe to our Economic Times WhatsApp channel A new COVID variant, NB.1.8.1, linked to a major surge in China, has been detected in the United States. The virus is believed to have arrived via international travelers, according to airport screenings and state are concerned, but the United States is currently experiencing low overall case numbers. It has been detected in several states, and while it is not yet widespread, it may become more say it's too early to panic, but they recommend taking precautions as new vaccines targeting related strains are being submitted by the CDC's airport testing partner Ginkgo Bioworks show that cases associated with the NB.1.8.1 variant have been reported in arriving international travellers at airports in California, Washington state, Virginia, and the New York City area, as quoted in a report by CBS regarding the sequencing results, which were made public on the Global Initiative on Sharing All Influenza Data, or GISAID, virus database in recent weeks, indicates that travelers from a variety of nations, including China, Taiwan, Japan, South Korea, France, Thailand, the Netherlands, Spain, and Vietnam, are responsible for the variant, which is currently prevalent in China and is becoming more prevalent in other parts of Asia, has been the subject of intense scrutiny from experts.A CDC spokesperson said in a statement, "CDC is in regular contact with international partners and is aware of reported cases of COVID-19 NB.1.8.1 in China."The agency's variant estimates dashboard does not currently include enough reported U.S. sequences of the number of cases has increased, Hong Kong officials have begun to advise residents to wear masks in crowded areas and on public transit, despite their claims that there is no evidence that the variant, which is a descendant of the virus's XDV lineage, is more health officials have also noted an increase in ER visits, serious illnesses, and fatalities. In reaction to the outbreak, local health officials say they are accumulating vaccines and antiviral are urged not to panic but remain vigilant and alert. With the number of cases remaining low nationally, health officials recommend reverting to simple precautions, particularly in crowded or confined areas. Wearing masks while using public transportation or during travel is an easy step to take to minimize need to update COVID-19 vaccines for the upcoming fall and winter seasons was discussed by outside vaccine advisers to the Food and Drug season's vaccines targeted a JN.1 descendant known as KP.2. According to preliminary data provided by Pfizer and Moderna, switching to a different JN.1 descendant known as LP.8.1 may increase protection against disagreements over specifics, the committee unanimously supported the recommendation that vaccines for the upcoming season target some form of JN.1 some advocated for the update to focus on the LP.8.1 descendant of JN.1 that Pfizer and Moderna have prototyped, others supported letting vaccine manufacturers continue using the vaccines from the previous it has been detected in travelers and reported in several states, including California, Ohio, and New yet, the variant isn't more severe, but it may spread more easily. Stay informed and consider vaccine options this autumn.
