A previously unknown COVID-19 variant that has emerged as a significant concern in recent months is now projected to become the second most prevalent strain in the United States. Variant NB.1.8.1, initially identified in China in January, had negligible presence in U.S. cases until May. By early June, it was estimated to make up as much as 37% of cases, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control (CDC).
The World Health Organization (WHO) assessed the variant’s public health risk as low on a global scale in a May report, affirming that existing COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against symptomatic and severe cases of this new variant.
What is NB.1.8.1? NB.1.8.1 is among the latest strains of COVID-19, described as a slightly modified version of the LP.8.1 variant by Subhash Verma, a professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno. This new variant was first detected in China in January and has since accounted for a notable percentage of global COVID-19 cases.
Verma suggested that NB.1.8.1 may spread more easily and evade immune responses more effectively than its predecessor, LP.8.1. Consequently, he emphasized the importance of closely monitoring this variant due to its potential for rapid transmission and evasion of immune defenses.
The prevalence of NB.1.8.1 in the U.S. has surged in recent weeks, rising from 0% of cases in March to 37% by early June. This makes NB.1.8.1 the second most common strain in the U.S., following closely behind the LP.8.1 (Omicron) variant.
While specific symptoms unique to NB.1.8.1 have not been outlined by the CDC, reports suggest that symptoms are similar to those associated with earlier variants of COVID-19. One distinctive symptom that has been linked to this new variant is an intense sore throat often referred to as a “razor blade throat.”
Common COVID-19 symptoms outlined by the CDC include fever, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, congestion, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, nausea, and vomiting. Seek medical attention if you experience difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion, or other severe symptoms.
Vaccination remains a crucial preventive measure against COVID-19 and its evolving variants. To protect yourself from NB.1.8.1 and other strains, follow recommended health guidelines, practice good hygiene, wear masks in crowded settings, and stay informed about updates from health authorities.
The World Health Organization confirms that the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against the NB.1.8.1 variant. According to a webpage dated Jan. 7, 2025, the CDC recommends that all individuals over the age of six months receive the 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, specifically the 2024-2025 Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine. It is especially advised for those who have never been vaccinated, individuals aged 65 and older, those who are immunocompromised, reside in long-term care facilities, pregnant, breastfeeding, trying to conceive, or wish to reduce their risk of long COVID.
However, Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced on May 27 that the COVID-19 vaccine will no longer be part of the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule for healthy children and pregnant women. This decision diverges from previous expert recommendations and bypasses the usual scientific review process. Under the new guidelines, only individuals over 65 and those with preexisting health conditions will be recommended to receive the COVID-19 vaccine. This may create challenges for individuals seeking the vaccine, including healthcare workers and healthy individuals under 65 who have vulnerable family members or wish to minimize their short-term infection risk.
As a result, some individuals desiring the vaccine may need to pay for it out-of-pocket, if they can access it at all. The availability of the COVID-19 vaccine in the future remains uncertain. For those seeking free COVID-19 testing, the federal program ICATT continues to offer free testing to uninsured individuals. The CDC reports that over 19,000 locations nationwide provide free testing. To locate a nearby testing site offering free services, visit testinglocator.cdc.gov/Search. This information was originally published in USA TODAY regarding the new COVID variant spreading in the US in 2025, its symptoms, and what individuals should be aware of.
