A new COVID variant has been detected in New York City’s wastewater.
The latest variant, BA.2.86, has been seen previously in other parts of the U.S., but had not been detected anywhere in New York state. However, it was recently found in tests of the city’s sewage.
According the NYC’s Department of Health and Mental Hygiene The new variant has not been found in any tests from local residents, but health officials said it is “almost certainly” already circulating in the city.
The CDC expects new Covid vaccines to be available in mid-September.
New COVID variant detected in New York City
virus on a blue background