ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - Health experts are warning about a new COVID-19 variant that’s spreading.

The Atlanta-based Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) says the NB.1.8.1 variant, nicknamed Nimbus, is causing more than 40% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

As people gather to celebrate the Labor Day Holiday, Dr. James Black, Director of Emergency Services at Phoebe Putney, says there’s an increased chance for the virus to spread even more.

“As always, we keep track and we try to be early or mindful when we see an increase in the number of those patients. So, we continue to track those numbers, and when they start to pick up in our part of the state, we want to be mindful and try to stay ahead of it,” said Dr. Black. “Wash your hands frequently, limit your contact with people, cover your mouth when you sneeze or cough, and certainly if you’re so inclined, wear a mask when you have to be in public areas.”

If you’re at high risk of severe illness, doctors recommend getting the updated COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Black says wearing a mask around large groups of people and washing your hands are still the best ways to prevent the spread of COVID.

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