Filenews 29 May 2025
The rapid spread of the new Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, is a cause for concern as cases rise worldwide, bringing back to the forefront the need for enhanced surveillance and vaccination coverage.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reports a new increase in virus activity internationally, with the test positivity rate standing at 11% – the highest rate since July 2024.
The rise in infections has been strongly observed since mid-February 2025, according to the latest data from surveillance centers, affecting regions such as the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific.
Although the release of the LP.8.1 variant has declined, NB.1.8.1 – which is under surveillance – is increasing its dispersion, accounting for 10.7% of global genomic sequences by mid-May.
The WHO notes that, despite increased activity, current trends are in line with those recorded in the same period in 2024. However, Covid-19 continues to not show a stable seasonal pattern, while international surveillance remains inconsistent.
"Continuous monitoring of SARS-CoV-2 variants and its transmission is critical, especially as surveillance capabilities have declined in many areas," the WHO said in its latest report.
The Agency called on states to continue managing the pandemic with an "integrated risk-based approach", as stipulated in the permanent recommendations of its Director-General.
Vaccination remains a cornerstone of the response strategy, with the WHO calling on governments to strengthen coverage especially for vulnerable groups, in order to reduce hospitalizations and deaths.
Public health experts are concerned about the reduction in testing and genomic analysis, which makes it difficult to detect and manage new variants of the virus early.
As a clear seasonal cycle for Covid-19 has not yet been formed, monitoring the evolution of the virus remains a challenge for traditional epidemiological forecasting models.
