A new COVID variant, NB.1.8.1, is gaining traction globally, including in the United States. The World Health Organization (WHO) announced that it is monitoring this variant after a rise in cases in regions like Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Americas. While it appears to be more transmissible than the currently dominant strain, LP.8.1, NB.1.8.1 does not show signs of evading vaccine protection or causing more severe illness.
NB.1.8.1’s Impact on the U.S. and Global Health
Despite the variant’s increasing prevalence, experts, including Andrew Pekosz, a virologist at Johns Hopkins University, suggest that it is unlikely to cause a major surge in COVID-19 cases in the U.S. at this time. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has reported fewer than 20 cases of NB.1.8.1 in the U.S., meaning it has not yet reached the threshold to be considered a dominant strain. The variant is primarily a concern in China, where it has become the dominant strain of COVID-19.
Concerns Over Vaccine Effectiveness and Immunity
While NB.1.8.1 does not appear to be more effective at evading vaccines, experts warn that population immunity in the U.S. may have waned. Only about 25% of adults have received the latest COVID booster shot, and the lack of recent waves has left many individuals with reduced immunity. Dr. Thomas Russo from the University at Buffalo expressed concern that the combination of these factors may result in a slight uptick in cases, particularly during the summer months.
Vaccine Strategy and Booster Recommendations
The FDA is urging vaccine manufacturers to update COVID-19 vaccines this fall to target LP.8.1 and its cousins, including NB.1.8.1. The current vaccine should still provide protection against the new variant, but health officials recommend booster shots, especially for vulnerable groups like older adults and those with medical conditions. However, the FDA’s updated vaccine guidelines may limit access to certain groups, which has raised concerns among some healthcare professionals about the potential vulnerability of pregnant people and children under 5.
Symptoms and Behavior of NB.1.8.1
While the spread of NB.1.8.1 has raised alarms, it has not been linked to more severe health outcomes than previous variants. Symptoms remain consistent with other forms of COVID-19, and the WHO continues to monitor the situation. The CDC and other health organizations continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination to reduce the risks associated with the virus and its variants.
Global and Domestic Monitoring Efforts
Health officials in the U.S. and abroad are continuing to monitor the spread of NB.1.8.1. In the U.S., the CDC has noted its ongoing efforts to track emerging strains and inform vaccine updates. Experts predict that the virus could lead to a mild to moderate increase in cases in the coming months, but much remains uncertain as the virus evolves.