Variant Characteristics and Impact
The NB.1.8.1 variant, dubbed Nimbus, has rapidly spread from to and , noted for its high contagion level but not causing more severe disease than previous strains.
Experts predict Nimbus could lead to another summer spike in cases, emphasizing the importance of maintaining immunity through vaccination due to waning protection from past variants.
Vaccine Efficacy and Recommendations
Current vaccines, including those released last fall, still offer some protection against Nimbus, highlighting the ongoing relevance of COVID-19 and the vaccines' role in safeguarding vulnerable populations.
Amid mixed messages over vaccine recommendations, particularly for children and pregnant women, health experts stress the safety and importance of COVID-19 vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups and to prevent Long COVID complications.