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New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 Under Watch: Symptoms and What You Need to Know
A new COVID-19 variant,NB.1.8.1,is spreading and under scrutiny by the World Health Institution.
NB.1.8.1 is related to Omicron.
Here’s what to watch for.
COVID-19 might not be top of mind lately, but a new variant called NB.1.8.1 is gaining attention. The World Health Organization (WHO) has designated NB.1.8.1 as a “variant under monitoring,” indicating they are closely tracking it.The WHO notes it’s been detected in 22 countries and appears to be spreading rapidly.
According to Perry N. Halkitis, PhD, dean of the Rutgers School of Public health, the variant’s rapid spread is concerning. Tho, he adds that existing immunity levels may affect how widespread it becomes.
This news follows changes to COVID-19 vaccine access, raising concerns about protecting yourself from this variant. Here’s what medical experts advise.
What Symptoms Should I Watch For?
NB.1.8.1 is a subvariant of JN.1, which is part of the Omicron family. Thomas Russo, MD, professor and chief of infectious disease at the University at Buffalo in New York, notes that the jump from previous variants isn’t as importent as the Delta to Omicron shift.
Symptoms of NB.1.8.1 are similar to those of previous COVID-19 strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the following potential symptoms:
fever or chills
Cough
Shortness of breath or trouble breathing
Sore throat
Congestion or a runny nose
New loss of taste or smell
Fatigue
Muscle or body aches
Headache
Nausea or vomiting
When Will the New Variant Hit the U.S.?
It’s already here. Dr. Russo confirms that a few cases have been detected in the U.S. The WHO reported a significant increase in NB.1.8.1 cases in the Americas from early April to mid-May.
However, it is not yet on the CDC’s variant tracker.
Will It Become the Dominant COVID Variant?
It’s too early to tell if it will become dominant, says Dr. Russo.It’s rapid spread suggests it is highly infectious.
How Can I Protect Myself?
Recommendations have shifted. Previously, vaccination was the primary advice, but eligibility has changed.
Perry N. Halkitis says that those without vaccination or with only the first-generation vaccination are more susceptible.
If you’re ineligible for the vaccine, Dr. Russo suggests wearing a mask in crowded indoor settings and avoiding visibly sick people.
EXPLAINER: Understanding COVID-19 Variants
COVID-19 variants emerge as the virus mutates. The WHO monitors these variants, designating some as “variants of interest” or “variants of concern” based on their potential impact on transmission, severity, and immune evasion.
Key Background Topics:
viral mutations
Immune response
Public health monitoring
Vaccine effectiveness
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