A new COVID-19 variant called NB. 1.8.1 is stirring concern worldwide with a surge in cases prompting the World Health Organisation (WHO) to label it as a “variant under monitoring”. Despite the risk to health being low, experts remain vigilant due to increased infections and hospitalisations in areas where NB.1.8. 1 is prevalent.
Identified initially on January 22, 2025, NB. 1.8.1 is a derivative of the Omicron strain. Fast forward to May 18, this variant has been detected in 22 nations, with 518 genetic sequences now logged in the GISAID database, reports Wales Online. Globally, NB 1.8. 1 accounts for 10% of all recorded COVID-19 infections – a steep rise from a mere 2.5% reported only a month prior.
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NB 1.8. 1 has become predominant in Hong Kong and China, with occurrences noted in other areas including eastern Mediterranean hotspots like Egypt and locations in South East Asia such as Thailand and the Maldives. Moreover, the Centre of Disease Control (CDC) in the US has identified cases spanning New York, California, Arizona, Ohio, Washington, and Rhode Island.
Are there reports of NB. 1.8.1 within Wales?
This year, the most prevalent variants in Wales have been the XEC strains, including XEC. 2 and XEC.4. These have made up between 20% and 70% of all samples sequenced in Wales each week since December last year. Other frequently seen variants include the KP. 2 variant that was widespread in December last year, the LF.7 variant seen sporadically throughout the year, and the MC variants, which encompass the MC. 10, MC.13 and MC. 1 subvariants.
There have been instances of the NB. 1 variant sequenced in Wales, but these have only been detected a handful of times over three weeks out of the last 21.
Should you be concerned?
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), the global health risk from the NB. 1.8.1 variant is low. While some countries are witnessing an increase in hospital visits linked to this variant, there’s no evidence to suggest it causes more severe illnesses than recent variants.
Are you protected?
Yes. The WHO assures that the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection against this variant, particularly when it comes to preventing serious illness and symptoms.
Are there any travel restrictions?
Despite the NB. 1.8.1 variant being detected in popular holiday destinations, the WHO states there’s no need for travel or trade restrictions at present.
The organisation encourages countries to remain vigilant and adjust their responses as necessary, but does not advocate for closing borders or limiting travel.
A report from the World Health Organization urges: “WHO recommends that countries remain vigilant, adapt to evolving epidemiological trends, and leverage COVID-19 management strategies to strengthen systems for all respiratory disease threats. Member States should continue offering COVID-19 vaccines in line with WHO recommendations.”
Wondering about the symptoms?
Health gurus at the CDC have indicated that although symptoms may vary based on the strain, they typically resemble those associated with conventional COVID-19 presentations.
Experiencing symptoms?
Those with COVID symptoms are advised by the NHS to adopt straightforward protective measures to safeguard their own health as well as the well-being of others.