The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated on Monday that nearly 10% of new COVID-19 cases in the U.S. have been identified as the BA.2.86 variant, nearly three times the figures recorded two weeks ago. Analysis of specimens obtained from testing laboratories reveals that the variant is predominantly prevalent in the Northeast. Specifically, 13.1% of cases in the New York and New Jersey region are attributed to the BA.2.86 strain.
Previously, BA.2.86 was grouped with other BA.2 strains due to low prevalence. However, recent estimates show a surge in its presence, leading the CDC to present it as a separate variant. Despite high margins of error in estimating its prevalence, the CDC’s latest figures indicate a significant increase to 8.8% through Nov. 25 compared to 3.0% on Nov. 11.
The World Health Organization has classified the BA.2.86 variant as a “variant of interest,” noting a substantial rise in recent cases. Additionally, the CDC and WHO assessments have suggested a low public health risk related to the variant.
As COVID-19 indicators surge across the U.S., health officials have raised concern about the resurgence of the virus, particularly in Northern and Midwestern regions. In the midst of these developments, a lesser-known BA.2.86 descendant called JN.1 has been identified, with authorities in Europe reporting a significant increase in infections from this variant. This has raised questions about the potential impact of this variant and its prevalence in U.S. cases.
Despite these developments, the CDC remains confident that COVID-19 tests, treatments, and vaccines will remain effective in controlling this new variant. However, facts and figures on JN.1 and its prevalence in BA.2.86 estimates are still not thoroughly established. Overall, public health officials are closely monitoring these shifts as the world battles to fight the pandemic.
