NB.1.8.1: a descendant of the JN.1 variant
NB.1.8.1, the new COVID variant, is making headlines globally. It is a subvariant of Omicron lineage JN.1.
There has recently been a surge of cases throughout Asia linked to NB.1.8.1. Now, cases are being detected in the US as well.
At this hour, health authorities are busy monitoring the spread. However, for the general public, it becomes important to know more about this variant and how it affects us.
As a descendant of the JN.1 variant which further traces its sublineage to Omicron, NB.1.8.1, the new COVID variant was identified first in China where it has also become a dominant strain rapidly. COVID-19 cases have recently shot up in China and across other parts of Asia like Singapore and Hong Kong; its presence has been confirmed. This is via airport screening programs run in the US.
WHO classifies NB.1.8.1 as a variant being monitored
As per a press release by the WHO, NB.1.8.1, the new COVID variant is now a SARS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring (VUM) and its proportions are increasing at a global scale. NB.1.8.1 is derived from recombinant variant XDV.1.5.1 and its earliest sample was collected on 22 January 2025.
NB.1.8.1 is one of six VUMs that WHO has tracked. On 23 May 2025, it was designated as VUM.
Symptoms of NB.1.8.1, the new COVID variant
If we consider the symptoms of NB.1.8.1, the new COVID variant, they bear some similarities with the prior Omnicron variants. The symptoms commonly reported are:
- Sore throat
- Mild cough
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Congestion
- Muscle aches
As reported, there have been some cases where the patients experience persistent low-grade hypothermia. In this condition, failed thermoregulation elevates body temperature beyond normal. Nevertheless, this condition is different from normal fever. Other associated symptoms include gastrointestinal issues, loss of appetite, nausea, and headaches.
Transmissibility rates of NB.1.8.1 are higher as compared to other variants. If we go by the preliminary data, it tells us that the ability of this variant to bind to human cells is higher. Correspondingly, it increases the odds of contracting an infection.
The core destination where this variant is detected is among the travelers who arrive at important US airports, such as New York, Virginia, Washington, and California. The significance of public health measures and continued surveillance is underscored here.
Is this a threat?
In some countries where NB.1.8.1 is widespread, the number of cases and hospitalizations has enhanced. The WHO has however specified that the current data does not specify that this variant leads to more severe illness as compared to other variants.
COVID situation in India
As of current, there has been a mild rise in COVID-19 cases in India. The primary driving factor behind the same is the emergence of a new Omnicron subvariant – JN.1.
It should be noted that whenever an infection becomes endemic, periodic surges are commonly seen. Moreover, as of present, the numbers are not alarming.
The factors contributing to these fluctuations include increased international travel, decreased vaccination rates, and waning immunity. Besides, the emergence of the new variant has further accentuated these fluctuations.
The infections have been mild till now and have been limited to fatigue, sore throat, and fever. Even though there is no need to be alarmed as such, vigilance needs to be practiced. This stands to be truer for the elderly and all categories of patients whose immunity has been compromised. They include people with chronic conditions like COPD, Diabetes Mellitus, and chronic kidney disease.
Staying safe
For the sake of the safety of yourself and others around you, it is best to keep up-to-date with COVID-19 boosters and vaccinations. In case you need to visit enclosed or crowded spaces, wear a mask. Maintain good hand hygiene and be on the lookout for symptoms. If you happen to feel unwell, get yourself tested. Then, it is equally important to follow local advisories and guidelines. Staying vigilant and not panicking is the key.
