A newly emerging COVID-19 variant known as NB.1.8.1 is rapidly spreading across the United States, becoming the second most common strain just months after its initial detection.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the NB.1.8.1 variant, first identified in China in January, now makes up 37% of new U.S. cases, just behind the Omicron subvariant LP.8.1, which accounts for 38%.
While experts say the global risk remains low, they are closely monitoring NB.1.8.1 because of its ability to spread faster and dodge immunity from previous infections and vaccines more effectively than earlier variants.
What is NB.1.8.1 and Why Is It Concerning?
Microbiology professor Subhash Verma describes NB.1.8.1 as an evolved version of LP.8.1, with higher transmission rates and better immune evasion. This makes it easier to catch and potentially harder to avoid, even for vaccinated individuals.
As of mid-May, NB.1.8.1 made up 10.7% of global COVID-19 cases, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
Symptoms of NB.1.8.1: What to Watch For
While the CDC has not listed unique symptoms specific to this variant, people infected with NB.1.8.1 are reporting similar signs to earlier strains.
One newly noted symptom is a very painful sore throat, often called “razor blade throat.” Patients describe it as feeling like their throat is raw or cut.
Other common symptoms include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue
- Body aches
- Headache
- Nausea or vomiting
Seek emergency care if you experience:
- Trouble breathing
- Chest pain or pressure
- Confusion
- Difficulty staying awake
- Discoloration of lips, skin, or nail beds
Vaccines Still Offer Protection—But May Be Harder to Get
The WHO reports that existing COVID-19 vaccines still offer protection against severe illness from NB.1.8.1. The CDC recommends that everyone over 6 months old receive the 2024–2025 COVID-19 vaccine, especially if they are over 65, immunocompromised, pregnant, or living in care facilities.
However, recent statements by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that the vaccine will no longer be recommended for healthy children or pregnant women. The change, which bypassed standard review processes, limits future access to the vaccine, possibly requiring out-of-pocket payment for some people.
Free Testing Is Still Available
Despite the changes in vaccination guidance, free COVID-19 testing is still offered through the ICATT (Increasing Community Access to Testing) program. As of May 27, over 19,000 locations nationwide provide no-cost tests, especially for those without health insurance.
Read more:
