Rising COVID-19 Cases in the EU: ECDC Warns About New Variant

An increasing trend in COVID-19 activity has been observed in many countries across the European Union, with the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) warning about a potential rise in cases during the summer. Alongside this upward trend, the emergence of the new NB.1.8.1 variant (nicknamed ‘nibus’) has been noted. While it does not appear to cause more severe illness than other circulating variants, it spreads more easily. Consequently, hospitalizations are expected to increase wherever the variant appears. This is precisely what the ECDC warns against in its latest report. Currently, the NB.1.8.1 variant circulates at low levels, but an increase is anticipated over the coming weeks following a winter season with relatively low virus circulation. Dr. Edoardo Colzani, head of the Respiratory Diseases Unit at ECDC, highlights concerns that population immunity may have waned partially due to the lack of exposure. Additionally, vulnerable groups, such as the elderly and immunocompromised individuals, remain largely unvaccinated, raising fears they could be susceptible to the new variant. In Asia, particularly India, where the variant is spreading rapidly, case numbers and hospitalizations among vulnerable populations are on the rise. Although the NB.1.8.1 variant is not yet considered a greater public health threat than existing variants, it is under close surveillance by both the ECDC and the World Health Organization (WHO). Notably, in the United States, it accounted for 15% of genetically analyzed COVID-19 samples on May 25, 2025, rising to 37% just two weeks later on June 7, according to the U.S. CDC. Experts recommend heightened vigilance and adherence to all necessary measures, especially for vulnerable population groups, to avoid unpleasant surprises this summer.