COVID-19 cases are rising again across Gulf countries like Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, and Kuwait due to a new variant called NB.1.8.1. This variant is spreading quickly, replacing older strains such as LP.8.1, and has caused test positivity rates to jump from 4% in March to 15% by mid-May.
Experts are concerned because NB.1.8.1 has a mutation (Spike 445) that helps it stick more strongly to human cells, making it more infectious and possibly harder for the immune system to fight off. While it’s not yet confirmed if this variant causes more severe illness, its rapid spread is alarming, especially in a region with very low vaccination coverage.
Read more: Meet the New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1: Know Its Symptoms and How to Treat Them
In 2024, less than 0.5% of older adults in the Gulf received a COVID booster shot, and even among healthcare workers, uptake is below 1%. This leaves many vulnerable individuals exposed to the virus.
Adding to the concern is the lack of detailed hospital data, as many countries aren’t reporting how many people are in ICUs or dying from COVID. This lack of information makes it difficult to understand the true impact and delays timely response. The World Health Organization (WHO) has urged countries to restart regular testing, improve hospital data reporting, and promote vaccination among high-risk groups. They also recommend closely monitoring variants through genome sequencing.
For individuals, especially those who are older or have existing health conditions, WHO advises wearing masks in crowded places and considering a booster shot if one hasn’t been taken in the past year. While there’s no talk of lockdowns or restrictions at the moment, health officials are urging everyone to stay alert and be prepared as the situation develops.
