HCMC – HCMC has reported 63 new Covid-19 cases, a 142% rise compared to the average of the previous four weeks. One severe case has been confirmed, according to the HCMC Center for Disease Control (HCDC).
Since early 2025, the city has reported 184 Covid-19 infections, down 48% versus the same period in 2024, when 355 cases were detected. HCDC noted that the upward trend has been observed since mid-April.
The Hospital for Tropical Diseases in HCMC, in partnership with the Oxford University Clinical Research Unit (OUCRU), has conducted genome sequencing on samples collected from hospitalized patients in the third week of May. The NB.1.8.1 subvariant was found in 83% of the samples.
The first genome of NB.1.8.1 was made public earlier this year and has since been detected in 22 countries and territories as of May 22.
Despite its spread, the World Health Organization (WHO) has yet to classify NB.1.8.1 as a variant under monitoring, of interest, or of concern. Current data show no significant changes in transmission or severity compared to earlier variants.
In response, the HCMC Department of Health has urged local health facilities to stay alert. Hospitals and clinics have been asked to stay ready to admit and treat patients effectively, especially those in high-risk groups.
HCDC continues to work with OUCRU to monitor the outbreak, assess risks, and implement appropriate prevention strategies. The health department also advised residents to stay alert and follow the Ministry of Health’s recommendations to safeguard individual and community health.
