Variant Spreads Across Multiple Countries Since January
Health authorities have confirmed cases of a new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, in both Northern Ireland and Wales. This follows a global rise in infections linked to the variant since January 2025.
The World Health Organisation has classified NB.1.8.1 as a “variant under monitoring”. It now accounts for 10.7 per cent of global genetic sequences submitted.
A WHO spokesperson said, “SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, and between January and May 2025, there were shifts in global SARS-CoV-2 variant dynamics. At the beginning of the year, the most prevalent variant tracked by WHO at the global level was XEC, followed by KP.3.1.1.”
Figure 1: NB.1.8.1, a new COVID variant
The spokesperson added, “In February, circulation of XEC began to decline while that of LP.8.1 increased, with the latter becoming the most detected variant in mid-March. Since mid-April, the circulation of LP.8.1 has been slightly declining as NB.1.8.1 is increasingly being detected.”
Variant Grows in Prevalence Globally
The first identified NB.1.8.1 cases appeared in submitted samples in January 2025. GISAID data shows the earliest known confirmed infections occurred at the end of April.
NB.1.8.1 has now been reported in the United States, Australia, Thailand, China and Hong Kong. It has become the most dominant COVID-19 variant in China and Hong Kong. Reports indicate its global share of infections rose from 2.5 per cent to over 10 per cent in a single month.
Symptoms Remain Consistent With Omicron Subvariants
Medical experts report that NB.1.8.1 presents symptoms typical of earlier Omicron strains. These include fatigue, fever, muscle aches and sore throat.
Some individuals have reported gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhoea, constipation and nausea. Reports also confirm cases involving shortness of breath and loss of smell or taste.
The full list of known symptoms includes:
- A high temperature or chills
- A new, continuous cough
- Loss or change in sense of smell or taste
- Shortness of breath
- Feeling tired or exhausted
- An aching body
- A headache
- A sore throat
- A blocked or runny nose
- Loss of appetite
- Diarrhoea
- Feeling sick or being sick
Experts Warn of Higher Transmissibility
Subhash Verma, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, Reno School of Medicine, said, “Data indicates that NB.1.8.1 does not lead to more severe illness compared to previous variants, although it appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily.”
“In other words, it is more transmissible,” Verma added.
WHO Finds No Evidence of Increased Severity
Although the NB.1.8.1 variant may infect cells more efficiently, the WHO has not found evidence that it leads to worse health outcomes. The variant carries multiple mutations that allow it to spread more easily.
A WHO spokesperson reiterated the organisation’s current position. “SARS-CoV-2 continues to evolve, and between January and May 2025, there were shifts in global SARS-CoV-2 variant dynamics,” the spokesperson said.
UK Monitoring Situation Closely
The UK’s public health agencies are monitoring the spread of the NB.1.8.1 variant. Cases in Northern Ireland and Wales represent early detection of the strain within the country.
Experts continue to analyse transmission rates and symptom patterns. Health authorities have not issued new restrictions but advise caution and vigilance.
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Global Surveillance Highlights Variant Shift
According to WHO data, NB.1.8.1 has steadily replaced earlier variants such as XEC and LP.8.1. Its rapid growth in prevalence suggests increased competitiveness within the viral population.
GISAID tracking and WHO updates continue to provide insight into the virus’s evolution and regional differences in variant dominance.
Public Health Guidance Remains Unchanged
The NHS has urged people to continue following existing health advice. The organisation advises frequent handwashing, use of face coverings in crowded spaces and staying up to date with vaccinations.
The NHS also recommends self-isolation if experiencing symptoms consistent with COVID-19. Testing remains available to those with symptoms or known exposure.
The organisation reiterates the importance of regular monitoring. “It’s important to check for any signs and report symptoms early to limit further spread,” the NHS stated in recent guidance.
Variant Does Not Alter Vaccine Recommendations
Current vaccines continue to provide protection against severe illness, hospitalisation and death. Health experts recommend booster doses for high-risk groups and elderly individuals.
The UK’s Joint Committee on Vaccination and Immunisation has not altered its vaccination schedule following the emergence of NB.1.8.1.
Conclusion
The NB.1.8.1 variant has become increasingly prevalent across the globe and now has confirmed cases in the United Kingdom. While it appears to be more transmissible, evidence does not indicate more severe disease outcomes.
Health authorities and experts continue monitoring the situation and analysing data. The public has been advised to remain informed, maintain hygiene practices and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.
