COVID-19 Cases Rise Again: Unair Expert Warns of Virus Mutations, Vaccine Gaps

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A recent uptick in COVID-19 cases is once again drawing concern. Agung Dwi Wahyu Widodo, an immunology expert at Airlangga University's Faculty of Medicine, said that while the current wave isn't nearly as severe as the pandemic's peak, the public should not let their guard down.

Agung said that while today's COVID-19 situation may be milder, the threat remains real. That's why he urged the public to remain alert. "We went through the pandemic around four years ago. While a small rise in cases can be considered normal, we need to be cautious because the virus may not have truly disappeared. It has only mutated to spread more easily, even if the symptoms are milder," he wrote in a statement on Wednesday, June 11.

The Rise of Nimbus

Agung pointed to three key drivers behind the latest surge: new variants, waning population immunity, and post-pandemic behavioral shifts. Together, they've created the perfect set up for another round of community spread.

"This new variant is a result of Omicron mutations, ranging from JN.1 to NB.1.8.1. The NB.1.8.1 variant is known as Nimbus. Nimbus has a significantly different spike protein structure compared to earlier Omicron variants," he said.

Weather shifts, he noted, have also played a role in weakening people’s immune systems. What should have been a dry season has instead turned cold and rainy, which is an ideal condition for the spread of SARS-CoV-2, similar to the early days of the global outbreak.

"This seasonal shift has triggered a drop in people’s immunity. At the same time, many believe Covid-19 is no longer around, so they've started ignoring health protocols. But just because testing isn't happening doesn’t mean the virus is truly gone," he said.

With limited testing and contact tracing, Agung warned that many people may be infected without realizing it, brushing off coughs and colds that could actually be Covid, which is usually how silent, hard-to-control outbreaks started.

Old Vaccines, New Problems

The virus may have moved on, but the vaccines haven't. Agung said older COVID-19 vaccines are no longer effective at stopping newer strains like Nimbus or Omicron.

"Just like the seasonal flu, we need updated vaccines that match these new variants. That's the only way to boost protection," he said.

In the meantime, Agung urged people to take responsibility for their own health: eat well, get enough rest, exercise within their limits, and reduce stress. He added that implementing basic COVID-19 protocols still works, such as wearing a mask in crowded public spaces.

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