Brian Jeffrey
Ho Chi Minh City has reported the detection of its first cases of a new COVID-19 variant called NB.1.8.1, which has also been confirmed in 22 other nations around the world.
Research indicates that NB.1.8.1, a sub-variant of XDV.1, accounts for 83% of recent genetic sequencing samples from COVID-19 patients in the city. It seems to have originated from genetic mixing with other strains.
In Taiwan (China), this variant has gained prominence, particularly impacting those who are unvaccinated and older individuals.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the United States has also identified its presence among international travelers.
Dr. Nguyen Van Vinh Chau, Deputy Director of the local Health Department, has reassured the community that there is no current evidence suggesting that NB.1.8.1 is more transmissible or severe than previous variants.
“The World Health Organization (WHO) has not flagged it as a variant of concern at this moment,” stated Chau.
Recently, Ho Chi Minh City has witnessed a spike in COVID-19 cases, with 26 reported within a single week, compared to an average of 1-2 cases weekly earlier this year.
Health authorities are urging residents to remain composed yet alert given the unpredictable nature of the pandemic.
Individuals are encouraged to follow health guidelines from the Ministry of Health, which include wearing masks in crowded settings, on public transit, and in healthcare facilities, as well as minimizing gatherings whenever possible.
Consistent handwashing with soap or hand sanitizer is highly recommended, alongside maintaining an active lifestyle and nutritious diet.
Anyone experiencing symptoms like fever, cough, or breathing difficulties should seek medical assistance promptly.
Travelers to and from regions with high COVID-19 prevalence are advised to keep a close watch on their health to safeguard themselves and others.
Since the outbreak began in 2019, experts believe the virus has continually mutated, resulting in thousands of variants.
While newer variants might spread more efficiently, they generally exhibit less severity compared to those seen in the pandemic’s early days.
Data from Ho Chi Minh City’s infectious disease surveillance indicates an increase in cases from week 16 to week 20 (April 14 to May 18), averaging 11 cases weekly, a rise from just 1-2 cases per week in the first 15 weeks of the year.
So far this year, the city has recorded 79 COVID-19 instances, with 43 requiring hospitalization and 36 receiving outpatient treatment, but no critical cases needing respiratory assistance.
COVID-19 is now often regarded as an endemic disease, with established treatment protocols and vaccines helping to mitigate severe cases.
Vietnam was recognized for its rigorous prevention measures during the pandemic, particularly during major outbreaks in 2020 and 2021, diligently tracking all patients with COVID-19 symptoms and tracing their contacts to ensure effective quarantines./.VNA
