As the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 continues to spread globally, Senator Bong Go is urging health authorities and the public to remain vigilant and well-prepared. The senator emphasized the importance of readiness in the face of emerging health threats, calling for proactive steps from relevant agencies to ensure the country is not caught off-guard. He stressed the value of a calm, fact-based response rooted in public awareness and thorough planning.
Current Status in the Philippines and Global Spread
While NB.1.8.1 has not yet been officially confirmed in the Philippines, global developments raise concern about its potential entry. The variant, a sub-lineage of Omicron, has been reported in countries such as the United States, China, France, and Hong Kong.
In some of these areas, rising COVID-19 hospitalizations have coincided with the variant's spread. Although early data suggest NB.1.8.1 does not cause more severe illness than previous strains, its higher transmissibility is a key concern.
Local health authorities are closely monitoring border entries and intensifying surveillance to prevent community transmission should the variant appear.
"Our airports are still open, so it is important to ask: What is the DOH (Department of Health) monitoring system doing now? Are our hospitals ready in case the situation worsens? Do we have protection from the vaccines that were injected in the past?" a concern Go raised in a statement.
NB.1.8.1 was first detected earlier this year and has since spread across several continents. It is now classified as a "variant under monitoring" by the World Health Organization. Its spike in presence, especially in densely populated and high-travel areas, has prompted renewed attention from health systems worldwide.
Urgency for Public Preparedness and Proactive Measures
Senator Go stressed that early preparation is essential, especially in light of the lessons learned from past COVID-19 waves. He called on the Department of Health to review containment protocols and improve public communication.
"We should not waste the opportunity. If there's one lesson we've learned from the pandemic, it's the importance of a timely, organized, and science-based response," he added in his statement.
Filipinos are encouraged to stay updated with vaccinations, continue practicing hygiene measures, and seek medical advice when symptoms emerge.
