For many people, Covid-19 seems like a chapter we’ve closed – together with the times of PCR checks, masks mandates and every day case updates. However whereas life might really feel again to regular, the virus hasn’t utterly vanished. In actual fact, new variants proceed to quietly flow into.
One of the most recent to seem on the radar is NB.1.8.1 – a reputation that you’ll have seen pop up in headlines and on social media feeds this week.
This newly rising sub-variant hasn’t triggered widespread concern, nevertheless it has caught the eye of scientists and well being officers.
The UK Well being Safety Company (UKHSA) introduced this week that NB.1.8.1 has up to now solely been detected in small numbers throughout the UK, however added that worldwide knowledge signifies that the sub-variant is steadily accounting for a rising share of world Covid-19 instances.
We consulted some GPs to search out out precisely what units the NB.1.8.1 Covid variant other than the remaining. Is it extra contagious, extra immune-evasive, or just one other step in Covid’s gradual evolution? Right here’s what they know up to now…
What’s the new NB.1.8.1 Covid variant and the place has it come from?
“The NB.1.8.1 variant, additionally known as Nimbus, is a brand new pressure of the Covid-19 virus that has emerged attributable to mutations in its genetic materials,” says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London Common Apply.
It’s a sub-variant of Omicron, says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical.
“Variants like this pop up when the virus mutates, which is regular for viruses, particularly ones that unfold extensively,” explains Tang. “NB.1.8.1 was first picked up in early 2025 and has since been detected in a number of international locations, together with the UK, China and US. It’s obtained some new mutations that scientists are retaining an in depth eye on.”
How is it totally different from earlier variants?
“NB.1.8.1 isn’t too totally different from the Omicron variant, nevertheless it does have some tweaks to its spike protein, which could make it unfold a bit extra simply or slip previous a few of our current immunity,” says Tang. “That mentioned, early indicators counsel it doesn’t appear to trigger extra critical sickness, however after all, we’re nonetheless studying extra about it.”
Nonetheless, Nimbus does look like extra transmissible than earlier variants, with notable will increase reported in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, notes Asif.
“Its unfold has been recognized in round 22 international locations,” says Asif. “The World Well being Group (WHO) assesses the extra threat to the worldwide public as at present low, and current Covid-19 vaccines are thought-about efficient in stopping extreme illness.”
How is it spreading?
“It’s spreading within the standard means, individual to individual, primarily by respiratory droplets when individuals cough, sneeze and even simply discuss intently,” says Tang. “Like different variants, it will possibly hold round within the air in poorly ventilated areas.”
What signs ought to individuals look out for?
“Frequent signs of the NB.1.8.1 variant embrace extreme sore throat (described as a “razor blade sensation”), fatigue, gentle cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion,” says Asif. “Nonetheless, signs can fluctuate extensively so vigilance is essential.”
What are the therapy choices?
“Remedy for Nimbus typically aligns with that for different Covid-19 variants,” says Asif. “Most people will recuperate at house with relaxation, hydration, and over-the-counter medicines for symptom administration.
“For these with extreme signs or high-risk problems, antiviral medicines or monoclonal antibody remedies could also be advisable. At all times seek the advice of your GP for personalised recommendation.”
How will you keep away from getting the brand new variant?
Ensure you are washing your arms often (Alamy/PA)
“Ensure that everybody’s updated with their Covid-19 jabs, particularly boosters,” recommends Tang. “Wash your arms repeatedly, maintain rooms nicely ventilated, and contemplate popping a masks on in busy locations or in case you’re round people who find themselves extra susceptible.
“If somebody in the home is feeling poorly, attempt to maintain a ways and clear shared surfaces repeatedly.”
When must you see a GP about this?
“Search medical recommendation in case you expertise Covid-19 signs, particularly in the event that they worsen or when you have underlying well being circumstances that enhance your threat,” advises Asif. “Moreover, seek the advice of your GP in case you’ve been in shut contact with somebody who has examined optimistic for the NB.1.8.1 variant or when you have well being considerations.”
