A new COVID-19 variant, named NB.1.8.1, is rising rapidly in prevalence across the United States and is projected to become the second-most common strain, accounting for about 37% of cases as of early June. First identified in China in January, this variant was virtually unheard of in the U.S. until May, when it began significantly contributing to new infections. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that NB.1.8.1 is only slightly behind the dominant LP.8.1 strain, also known as Omicron, which holds a 38% share of recorded cases.
According to microbiology expert Subhash Verma, NB.1.8.1 appears to be more transmissible than its predecessor, LP.8.1, and may have a greater capacity to evade the immune responses from previous infections or vaccinations. While specific symptoms for the NB.1.8.1 variant have not been documented by the CDC, reports indicate that individuals infected with NB.1.8.1 are experiencing a severe sore throat, often described as having a “razor blade throat.”
The CDC advises that current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against symptomatic and severe illness caused by this variant. However, recent changes announced by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. have altered vaccination recommendations. Moving forward, the COVID-19 vaccine may only be recommended for those over 65 or with existing health conditions, potentially making it harder for others—including healthcare workers and those under 65 who might be at risk—to access the vaccine without incurring out-of-pocket costs.
For those seeking to protect themselves, public health officials continue to recommend vaccinations, and there are still federally funded programs like the ICATT that offer free COVID-19 tests across the nation. As of late May, over 19,000 testing locations were available, ensuring wider community access to testing.
This ongoing public health challenge highlights the importance of remaining vigilant as evolving variants like NB.1.8.1 emerge. While the data indicate a concerning rise in cases, the efficacy of existing vaccines provides a hopeful avenue for mitigating severe outcomes. Vaccination, along with testing and public health guidelines, remains crucial in combating the spread of COVID-19 and its variants.