Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

WHO Sounds Alarm: New COVID Variant Surges Worldwide

6/2/2025

46 3

Summary

Story summary

The World Health Organization raises alarms as SARS-CoV-2 activity surges worldwide, with a concerning 11% test positivity rate. The newly emerged variant NB.1.8.1, detected in January 2025, is on the rise and could be more contagious. Alarmingly, vaccination rates, especially among older adults, remain disappointingly low, despite the vaccines' effectiveness against current strains.

1 of 1

Story summary

The World Health Organization raises alarms as SARS-CoV-2 activity surges worldwide, with a concerning 11% test positivity rate. The newly emerged variant NB.1.8.1, detected in January 2025, is on the rise and could be more contagious. Alarmingly, vaccination rates, especially among older adults, remain disappointingly low, despite the vaccines' effectiveness against current strains.