Covid-19, which has been a global health concern for over five years, has once again taken centre stage with the emergence of a new variant known as NB.1.8.1. This strain is now responsible for just over ten per cent of global infections and has already been identified in Northern Ireland and Wales.
Introduced to the public in January 2025, the NB.1.8.1 variant has shown a rapid increase in prevalence, particularly noted in countries such as the United States, Australia, and Thailand, as well as within popular tourist destinations. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified it as a "variant under monitoring," reflecting its potential impact and the need for continued vigilance. According to WHO data, NB.1.8.1 accounted for approximately 10.7 per cent of all submitted genetic sequences, highlighting its growing prevalence.
Notably, while there is no evidence suggesting that NB.1.8.1 leads to more severe illness compared to earlier variants, experts warn that its ability to infect cells more efficiently may contribute to increased transmissibility. Subhash Verma, a professor at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, commented that data indicate NB.1.8.1 spreads more readily than previous variants, although it does not seem to cause more severe health outcomes. Symptoms associated with this variant mirror those of preceding Omicron subvariants, including fatigue, fever, muscle aches, and a sore throat. Gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation, and nausea have also been reported, adding complexity to the clinical picture.
Public health experts have expressed concern about the challenges posed by the declining rates of Covid-19 testing. Fewer people are conducting tests, which makes it increasingly difficult to accurately track infections. This situation raises questions about the true scope of the outbreak and the potential for NB.1.8.1 to spread undetected. The WHO has noted that as of this year, there has been a notable shift in the dynamics of SARS-CoV-2 variants globally, complicating efforts to monitor and respond to new developments.
The current Covid vaccines are anticipated to retain their effectiveness against NB.1.8.1, providing protection against severe illness for those infected. This is particularly crucial for vulnerable populations who may face greater risk from any resurgence of the virus. Experts continue to advocate for vaccination as a key tool in controlling the spread of Covid-19.
As monitoring efforts continue, health authorities emphasise the importance of staying informed about Covid-19 symptoms and the necessity of maintaining public health practices, including vaccination, to mitigate the impact of this new variant.
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Source: Noah Wire Services