New COVID-19 Variant NB.1.81 Detected in US and China

A new highly infectious COVID-19 strain, NB.1.81, first detected in the US among international travelers, has led to a spike in hospitalizations in China and now in the US, including cases in New York City. Experts warn that this variant spreads more quickly than other strains. Despite increased hospitalizations, the Beijing-controlled government in Hong Kong downplays the danger of the variant, stating it does not appear more dangerous than previous variants. The CDC is closely monitoring the situation, as evidence suggests the variant may evade COVID vaccines. The Trump administration plans to limit booster vaccines to seniors and high-risk groups.

Longest Covid Infection Duration in an Immunocompromised Patient

An elderly man in Amsterdam, who was immunocompromised, had a Covid infection for 613 days, during which the virus mutated around 50 times. This case highlights the potential dangers of prolonged infections in vulnerable patients.