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New COVID Variant Sparks Vaccine Access Concerns in California

5/31/2025

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Summary

Story summary

A new COVID subvariant, NB.1.8.1, has surfaced in California, igniting fears of a summer surge. Recent federal policy shifts threaten vaccine access for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and children, potentially increasing their out-of-pocket expenses. Experts caution that these changes could exacerbate the ongoing public health crisis surrounding COVID-19.

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Story summary

A new COVID subvariant, NB.1.8.1, has surfaced in California, igniting fears of a summer surge. Recent federal policy shifts threaten vaccine access for vulnerable groups, including pregnant women and children, potentially increasing their out-of-pocket expenses. Experts caution that these changes could exacerbate the ongoing public health crisis surrounding COVID-19.