COVID-19 cases are reportedly on the rise globally, including within the World Health Organization’s (WHO) Eastern Mediterranean Region, according to a recent update from WHO EMRO. This increase is primarily attributed to the NB.1.8.1 variant, which the WHO has currently classified as a “variant under monitoring.”

While the COVID-19 virus continually mutates, leading to the emergence of new variants and periodic surges in cases, the WHO emphasizes that the NB.1.8.1 variant does not presently pose any additional health risks compared to other strains already in circulation. Current infection levels are described as consistent with patterns observed during the same period in the previous year, suggesting expected viral activity rather than an unforeseen or abnormal spike. Furthermore, hospitalizations and the need for intensive care related to COVID-19 are reported to be very limited in the region at this time.

Despite the lack of an elevated immediate threat from this new variant, the WHO maintains that its overall risk assessment for COVID-19 remains high. This is due to the continued significant levels of transmission observed in many areas globally. Consequently, the organization advises against the imposition of travel or trade restrictions based on the current epidemiological situation. Instead, it reiterates its strong recommendation for countries to sustain robust monitoring and reporting systems for COVID-19 activity, the associated disease burden, and the overall impact on public health and healthcare infrastructure.

Individuals are strongly urged to continue protecting themselves and others by adhering to proven public health measures. These include avoiding crowded places, maintaining physical distance from others, and wearing masks when feeling unwell, in high-risk situations, or in crowded and poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Consistent and frequent hand hygiene, along with the practice of covering coughs and sneezes, remains fundamentally important.

The WHO also highlights the critical importance of self-isolation for individuals experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations, including recommended booster doses, is another key protective strategy. Importantly, current vaccines are considered to remain effective against the NB.1.8.1 variant in preventing severe disease outcomes and death.

In light of the evolving situation, the WHO advises all countries to maintain a high level of vigilance and to implement a risk-based, integrated approach to managing COVID-19. This counsel aligns with an updated package of recommendations released in December 2024, designed to guide countries in developing evidence-based public health policies. These key recommendations encompass several critical areas for action.

Firstly, countries are advised to sustain comprehensive surveillance systems capable of early detection of new outbreaks and diligent monitoring of circulating variants. Secondly, ensuring equitable access to vaccines and promoting their uptake, especially among high-risk population groups, is paramount. Thirdly, there is a need to strengthen healthcare systems to effectively manage the clinical aspects of COVID-19 and to address post-COVID conditions. Lastly, enhancing risk communication strategies is vital to empower the public with accurate information for making informed decisions and to effectively counter misinformation and disinformation.

Since the formal declaration of the end of the Public Health Emergency of International Concern (PHEIC) for COVID-19 in May 2023, nations worldwide have adopted a variety of strategies for the ongoing management of the virus. Some countries have fully integrated their COVID-19 response activities into existing programs for respiratory diseases. Others remain in transitional phases, continuing to implement targeted interventions while adapting their public health systems for a more integrated approach to infectious disease management. Vaccination efforts, particularly targeting high-risk populations with updated vaccine formulations, continue to be a cornerstone of protective strategies, often administered alongside seasonal influenza and Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccines.

The World Health Organization remains committed to supporting countries through various means, including global coordination efforts, the development and dissemination of evidence-based guidance, and providing tailored assistance to help nations sustain core public health capabilities in collaboration with key partners. As global COVID-19 transmission persists, the necessity for sustained surveillance and continued public adherence to recommended protective measures remains crucial, even as health systems transition towards long-term management strategies for the virus.