As global travel and daily routines return to pre-pandemic rhythms, a new COVID symptoms variant—NB.1.8.1—is quietly making its presence felt, contributing to a noticeable increase in COVID-19 cases in parts of the world, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
In a statement released on May 29, 2025, the WHO confirmed that case numbers are climbing in the Eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and Western Pacific regions. Airport screenings in the United States have detected this new variant in travelers arriving from these areas, with confirmed detections in California, Washington, Virginia, and New York.
What We Know About NB.1.8.1 Covid Symptoms
NB.1.8.1 has been officially classified by the WHO as a “variant under monitoring”, a designation given to strains that may carry changes warranting closer observation. While it accounted for nearly 11% of sequenced COVID-19 samples worldwide by mid-May, the global public health risk remains low, according to the WHO.
Importantly, current COVID-19 vaccines are still expected to offer protection against this variant. There’s no evidence at this stage that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness compared to previous strains. For more, visit the WHO COVID-19 variant updates page.
What About COVID Symptoms?
So far, the COVID symptoms reported with NB.1.8.1 appear to be similar to previous variants. These include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue
- Loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially after travel or exposure to large gatherings, it’s recommended to test and self-isolate to prevent potential spread. For a full list of symptoms and guidance, visit the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
U.S. Vaccination Policy Shift
The news of the variant’s emergence coincides with a major shift in U.S. COVID-19 vaccine policy. On Tuesday, Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that COVID-19 vaccinations are no longer being recommended for healthy children and pregnant women. This decision has raised concerns among public health professionals, many of whom emphasize the importance of immunization in protecting vulnerable populations.
This updated stance marks a departure from prior guidelines issued by the CDC and has prompted renewed public debate. As of now, the CDC’s official recommendation on COVID-19 vaccinations remains available here.
What’s Dominant Right Now?
Despite the rise of NB.1.8.1, the LP.8.1 variant remains the dominant strain circulating both in the U.S. and globally. Scientists continue to monitor how these variants evolve, especially in terms of transmissibility, vaccine resistance, and COVID symptoms.
Final Thoughts
Although this new variant is spreading, health officials stress there is no cause for panic. Staying informed, practicing good hygiene, and monitoring symptoms can go a long way in protecting yourself and others.
To stay updated on COVID-19 developments, visit:
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