A new COVID-19 variant, designated NB.1.8.1 by the World Health Organization (WHO), is spreading across the country. While the WHO indicates that severe illness requiring ICU admission is less likely with this variant, it is highly contagious, spreading through sneezes and coughs, similar to older strains. As of May 18th, 22 countries have reported cases of NB.1.8.1, with virologists confirming its presence in Kolkata among several patients. Regions experiencing widespread transmission of this variant have seen a rise in case numbers, primarily due to its high transmissibility. Individuals with comorbidities, however, have been admitted to hospitals due to respiratory distress.

Dr. Pritam Roy, WHO Coordinator and public health expert in Bengal, reassures the public that there’s no need for panic. He states that the new variant is weaker and doesn’t affect the body as severely as previous variants. Crucially, existing approved COVID-19 vaccines remain equally effective against NB.1.8.1. Public health experts advise adhering to established precautionary measures to avoid infection: wear a mask if you have fever, cold, or cough, wash hands with soap after coming home, avoid crowds if you have comorbidities, and stay home if you feel unwell. While the new variant is on the rise, the older LP.8.1 variant is gradually losing its potency. Meanwhile, three new COVID-19 cases have been reported in Kolkata: a 70-year-old woman admitted to a private hospital near EM Bypass, and two women, aged 50 and 66, both with comorbidities, admitted to a private hospital in Salt Lake.