The ECDC is diligently monitoring Covid response in Europe, particularly the new variant NB.1.8.1, known as Nimbus. Emerging from low winter case rates, the variant heightens infection risks without increasing disease severity. Currently circulating primarily in Ireland, it is also linked to rising infections in parts of Asia. While an uptick in infections is noted, severe disease and hospitalization rates remain low. ECDC officials express concern over waning immunity in populations, particularly older adults, amid insufficient vaccination rates in many EU/EEA countries.
SARS-CoV-2 is currently circulating at low levels in the EU/EEA, but its incidence could increase in the coming weeks', said Edoardo Colzani, ECDC Head of Respiratory Viruses.
We do not anticipate the NB.1.8.1 variant to pose a greater public health risk than other Omicron-descendant variants, nor do we expect a significant impact on vaccine effectiveness against severe disease.
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