'Stealth' Omicron subvariant a growing concern for some as masking rules ease

As North Carolina emerges from the latest surge of COVID-19 cases, deaths and hospitalizations, researchers have their eyes set on a subvariant of the omicron variant: BA.2

The news is troubling for people like Suzanne Beaumont, who said the pandemic continues to teach us something new.

She said it feels too early to end local mask mandates across the state.

"It feels a little bit soon, we’ve been in our masks a long time. Things keep happening -- I’m going to wear mine for awhile," said Beaumont.

Others say the new mask guidance is long overdue.

"If you feel that your health status is wise enough for you not to put on a mask, that’s fine. You can go out here and not put it on," said local shopper Oluwasegun Samson.

Both are curious about the BA.2 subvariant, also called "stealth omicron" because researchers say it can be harder to detect on a PCR test. It also shows resistance to some treatments and may cause more serious illness than the initial omicron variant.

Dr. Mary Braithwaithe suggests being mindful of one’s environment.

"I don’t want to overly worry anyone, I just want us to be smart with our choices," said Braithwaithe.

As mask mandates loosen, it’s more important to bolster defenses with a looming subvariant.

"I would exercise some caution with the relaxation of mask mandates and consider in places where people are gathering and places where people are high risk to continue masking," said Braithwaite.

Health experts say BA.2 is 30% to 50% more contagious than Omicron variant.