NB.1.8.1 Becomes Dominant COVID-19 Variant in the U.S.
NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 variant now accounts for 43% of new U.S. cases, CDC reports, raising fresh concerns about transmission and immunity. “razor blade throat,” a more severe kind of sore throat, can spread more readily and overcome prior immunity.
There is still the fever, exhaustion, and cough from previous rounds. Misconceptions around vaccines have grown in spite of contradictory government and medical professional messaging.
RFK Modifies U.S. COVID Vaccine Policy
Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Secretary of Health and Human Services, said that the CDC will no longer recommend the COVID-19 vaccine to healthy children or pregnant women. Currently, only those over 65 and those with certain medical conditions are advised to get vaccinated.
The fact that this departs from earlier advice raises concerns about insurance coverage and accessibility for those under 65 who nonetheless want protection.
Medical Experts Push Back
Major health organizations such as the AMA, AAP, and ACOG criticized the move. They reaffirmed their commitment to evidence-based COVID-19 immunization, especially for pregnant individuals and children.
“We’re not stepping back, we’re stepping up,” said AAP President Susan J. Kressly. These groups plan to publish independent guidelines.
ACIP Reorganized, Fails to Offer Updated Recommendations
The Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices (ACIP), now composed of RFK appointees, failed to vote on fall vaccine guidance.Martin Kulldorff, the panel’s head, made anti-vaccine remarks and questioned vaccination findings.
The gathering was deemed unqualified and unscientific by critics, and the next meeting was rescheduled till September or October.
The FDA Revises Vaccine Labels to Issue Myocarditis Warnings
In order to account for the uncommon risk of myocarditis, the FDA modified the labeling of the mRNA COVID-19 vaccine (Pfizer and Moderna). The condition appeared in 8 out of 1 million doses, mostly in males aged 12-24. This is a shift from prior data focused on younger teens.
WHO and CDC (Prior to RFK Changes) Still Recommend Vaccination
The World Health Organization continues to recommend vaccination for people over 6 months, especially the elderly, pregnant individuals, immunocompromised people, and those seeking to avoid long COVID.
Despite political shifts, health authorities emphasize vaccines are effective against NB.1.8.1 and remain a crucial tool for preventing severe illness.
Source: USA Today
