Intra-Omicron Reinfection with JN.1.16 and NB.1.8.1 in a Preterm Infant: First NB.1.8.1 Detection in Tunisia-A Case

Zaineb Hamzaoui1, Sana Ferjani1,2, Ameni Sallemi3

  • 1Research Laboratory "Antimicrobial Resistance" LR99ES09, Faculty of Medicine of Tunis, University of Tunis El Manar, Tunis 1007, Tunisia.

Microorganisms
|May 27, 2026
PubMed

Insights

Highly mutated Omicron sub-lineages JN.1 and NB.1.8.1 pose risks to preterm infants. This case highlights severe SARS-CoV-2 ARDS and reinfection, emphasizing the need for pediatric genomic surveillance.

Area of Science:

  • Virology
  • Pediatrics
  • Genomics

Background:

  • Highly mutated Omicron sub-lineages like JN.1 and NB.1.8.1 have extensive spike protein changes.
  • The impact of these variants on vulnerable preterm infants is not well understood.

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