COVID-19 cases are rising again across several Australian states, prompting health authorities to renew calls for vigilance. The increase comes as the winter flu season takes hold, placing additional pressure on public health systems.
At the centre of the latest wave is a new Omicron subvariant, NB.1.8.1, which is spreading rapidly nationwide. The variant is now dominant in Western Australia and is gaining ground elsewhere, raising concerns about its potential impact on already vulnerable groups.
Surge in Cases Prompts Renewed Warnings From NSW Health
The most recent data from NSW Health shows 3,475 COVID-19 infections were confirmed in the week ending 14 June, reflecting a 10 per cent rise on the previous week. Officials believe the real number is likely higher due to reduced testing and reporting.
Infections have been rising steadily since May, particularly among residents aged 90 and older. According to Dr Jeremy McAnulty, Executive Director of Health Protection NSW, the virus is circulating at “moderate levels” and may escalate further without preventive measures.
“COVID is a serious illness and can cause hospitalisation and death, especially in people who are older, have other risk factors, or are immunocompromised,” he stated.
Residents aged 65 and older are being urged to receive their booster dose, with specific recommendations in place for those over 75 to have one every six months. All vaccinations remain free, including for those without a Medicare card.
Dr McAnulty also highlighted the importance of personal behaviour, such as staying home when unwell, wearing a mask if symptomatic, and avoiding crowded gatherings.
New Variant NB.1.8.1 Raises Concern for Immune Evasion
The emergence of the NB.1.8.1 variant is viewed by experts as a significant driver of the current rise in cases. According to Professor Catherine Bennett, Chair of Epidemiology at Deakin University, NB.1.8.1 has evolved from the Omicron JN.1 lineage and includes new mutations that allow it to evade immune protection more effectively.
“It just means if you’re exposed, you’re more likely to catch it,” said Professor Bennett, noting the strain’s enhanced ability to bind to receptors in mucosal linings.
Although the current vaccines are not perfectly matched to NB.1.8.1, they still offer substantial protection, particularly against severe illness. “Actually having a booster shot at the start of a wave gives you the best coverage you can have,” she added.
The World Health Organization has classified NB.1.8.1 as a “low risk” variant, citing no evidence of increased severity. Nonetheless, the combination of winter conditions, waning immunity, and higher transmissibility may result in a more significant seasonal wave compared to previous years.
As case numbers rise across all states and territories, health authorities continue to promote vaccination and precautionary behaviours as the most effective tools to curb transmission.