The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has identified the highly contagious NB.1.81 COVID-19 variant in the US, including New York City. The variant, linked to a surge in hospitalizations in China, was first detected among international travelers at several US airports.
The NB.1.81 variant, first detected in late March and early April, has appeared in states including California, Washington, Virginia, Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii.
Though cases remain too few for detailed tracking, experts warn the strain spreads faster than other dominant variants. In China and Hong Kong, the variant caused sharp increases in emergency visits and hospitalizations, especially among older adults. Dr. Amy Edwards, a pediatric expert, noted the rise in hospitalizations but said the variant does not seem more severe.
The CDC’s airport screening revealed infected travelers from multiple countries, signaling global spread. Scientists warn the variant may evade some vaccine protections.
This development coincides with recent CDC guidance narrowing COVID vaccine recommendations to high-risk groups, amid concerns about future virus waves.
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