Đặc điểm biến chủng NB.1.8.1 của COVID-19 đang lây lan tại TP.HCM | Báo Công Thương

Summary

The transcript discusses the rise of the NB181 variant of Covid-19 in Ho Chi Minh City, now accounting for 83% of local cases. This variant, a sub-strain of XDV1, spreads rapidly due to mutations that increase the virus's ability to attach to human cells. Despite this, the symptoms tend to be mild, resembling the common flu. The city is taking preventive measures, focusing on protecting high-risk groups and ensuring healthcare facilities are prepared. Experts urge the public to follow safety protocols and consider vaccination boosters, especially given the potential overlap with other diseases like measles.

Takeaways

• 😀 NB181 is a Covid-19 variant currently spreading in Ho Chi Minh City, making up 83% of the samples sequenced in recent tests.
• 😀 NB181 is a subvariant of XDV1, originating from a recombination of GN1 and XD variants.
• 😀 This variant has a rapid transmission rate and has been detected in 22 countries, including Australia, Canada, the U.S., Japan, and China.
• 😀 The number of Covid-19 cases in Ho Chi Minh City has increased significantly from week 16 to week 20 of 2025, with a surge of up to 26 cases in week 20.
• 😀 Despite the rise in cases, the total number of Covid-19 cases in the city has decreased by 75.5% compared to the same period in 2024.
• 😀 The most common symptoms of the NB181 variant include mild fever, sore throat, cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, muscle pain, and some gastrointestinal issues.
• 😀 NB181 has mutations in the spike protein (T4781, A435S, V445H) that enhance the virus’s ability to attach to human cells, increasing its spread compared to previous variants.
• 😀 Although NB181 has a high transmission rate, it is not yet classified as a high-risk variant by the WHO, and it generally does not cause severe illness.
• 😀 The Ministry of Health has urged medical facilities to review and strengthen their Covid-19 treatment plans, focusing on patient care and infection control in hospitals.
• 😀 The public is advised to continue following safety measures such as wearing masks, frequent handwashing, avoiding unnecessary gatherings, and getting booster vaccinations, especially for high-risk groups.

Q & A

What is the NB181 variant of Covid-19, and where is it spreading?

NB181 is a new Covid-19 variant spreading in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, and has been identified in 83% of Covid-19 samples analyzed in the region. It is a subvariant of XDV1, formed by the recombination of the GN1 and XD variants.

What are the key features of the NB181 variant that make it more contagious?

The NB181 variant carries mutations in the Spike Protein region, including T478I, A435S, and V445H, which increase the virus's ability to bind to human cells, enhancing its transmission speed compared to previous variants like XEC.

How has the number of Covid-19 cases in Ho Chi Minh City changed recently?

Covid-19 cases in Ho Chi Minh City have shown a slight increase from week 16 to week 20 of 2025. The average number of weekly cases rose from 1,000-2,000 earlier in the year to about 11,000 per week, with 26 cases reported in week 20.

Despite the increase in cases, why is there no immediate cause for panic?

While the number of cases has risen, the severity remains low, and no cases have required intensive care or respiratory support. The overall number of Covid-19 cases in 2025 is still 75.5% lower compared to the same period in 2024.

What preventive measures are being emphasized in Ho Chi Minh City to combat the spread of NB181?

The key preventive measures include strict hygiene practices, like wearing masks in public and medical settings, frequent handwashing, avoiding unnecessary gatherings, improving natural immunity through diet and exercise, and monitoring health when symptoms appear.

Why are people aged 65 and above and those with underlying conditions a priority for Covid-19 treatment?

Individuals over 65 and those with pre-existing health conditions like diabetes, heart disease, and respiratory issues are at higher risk of severe illness. These groups need prioritized monitoring and treatment to prevent complications from Covid-19.

How does NB181 compare to other variants in terms of severity?

Although NB181 has a higher transmission rate, it does not seem to cause more severe illness compared to other variants. Common symptoms are mild, including fever, sore throat, cough, and fatigue, making it more difficult for people to recognize the infection early.

What challenges might arise due to the increased spread of NB181 in Ho Chi Minh City?

The higher transmission rate could put pressure on the healthcare system, especially if there is a sudden surge in cases. Hospitals need to be prepared with adequate resources and measures to prevent cross-contamination among patients.

How is the health system in Ho Chi Minh City preparing for a potential surge in Covid-19 cases?

The city’s health authorities are reviewing plans for patient care, ensuring adequate medical supplies, training healthcare workers, and enforcing infection control procedures in hospitals to minimize the risk of cross-contamination.

What role does vaccination play in controlling the spread of the NB181 variant?

Vaccination remains a crucial tool in controlling the spread of Covid-19, including the NB181 variant. Health authorities recommend booster shots, particularly for high-risk groups, to enhance immunity and reduce the risk of severe outcomes from the virus.