New COVID variant NB.1.8.1 found at US airports amid global surge

People carrying NB.1.8.1 variant have tested positive at airports in California, Washington state, Virginia, and around New York City.

Published on: May 26, 2025, 08:17:47 IST

By HT News Desk

Prefer HTon Google

Share via

Copy link

A new COVID-19 variant, known as NB.1.8.1, has been detected from multiple foreign travelers arriving at US airports, as per CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention). This variant has been spreading quickly in China and some other parts of Asia.

Early studies suggest that NB.1.8.1 may spread more easily than other variants. (REUTERS)

People carrying this variant have been tested positive at airports in California, Washington state, Virginia, and around New York City. As per reports, these travelers travel history is from several countries, including Japan, South Korea, France, China, and others. The testing happened between April 22 and May 12.

Some U.S. states — like Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii — have also reported cases, not connected to airports. In California and Washington, the first cases appeared in late March and early April.

Health experts are watching this new variant closely. In Hong Kong, COVID cases are rising fast, and hospitals are seeing more people needing care. People there are being asked to wear masks again, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Taiwan is seeing more serious cases too and is stocking up on vaccines and treatments.

Early studies suggest that NB.1.8.1 may spread more easily than other variants, but it doesn’t seem to cause worse illness. It’s part of the JN.1 group of variants, which many vaccines already target.

Health officials in the U.S. are meeting to decide if the COVID-19 vaccines should be updated for fall and winter. Some experts say the new vaccines should focus on a related variant called LP.8.1, which might also protect against NB.1.8.1.

Also Read: Covid-19 cases rise in India: Surge reported in Delhi, Maharashtra, Kerala, Karnataka

Right now, COVID rates in the U.S. are low, and cases have dropped since the winter. Experts say COVID is starting to show clear seasonal patterns, with small spikes in summer and bigger ones in winter. But they’re still watching for new changes in the virus.

WHO take on new variant

The World Health Organization (WHO) is keeping an eye on a new COVID-19 variant called NB.1.8.1 as it's cases are spiking around the world. This variant comes from an earlier version of the virus known as XDV.1.5.1.

The first known case of NB.1.8.1 was found on January 22, 2025. WHO officially listed it as a “variant under monitoring” on May 23, 2025.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR
HT News Desk
Follow the latest breaking news, major developments and agenda-setting stories from India and around the world with the newsdesk at Hindustan Times. Operating round the clock, the desk brings together experienced editors, reporters and correspondents to deliver fast, accurate and contextual reporting across subjects that influence public policy, governance, business, society and international affairs. The HT News Desk covers politics, elections, government policies, the economy, business and markets, science and technology, the environment, law and order, infrastructure, education, climate issues and geopolitics, while closely tracking developments across states, institutions and global capitals. The team also leads coverage of major breaking news events, policy announcements, court proceedings, natural disasters, public emergencies and significant international developments. Reports published by the newsdesk are based on information gathered from reporters on the ground, official statements, government agencies, court records, regulatory filings, recognised institutions and other authoritative sources. Stories undergo editorial scrutiny and verification processes to ensure accuracy, fairness and relevance, and are updated as events evolve and additional information becomes available. Whether covering a key political decision in New Delhi, an economic policy shift affecting millions, a landmark court ruling or a major global event, the HT News Desk aims to provide readers with reliable, fact-based journalism that delivers not only the latest developments but also the context and analysis needed to understand their wider implications.Read More

Stay updated with US News covering politics, crime, weather, local events, and sports highlights. Get the latest on Donald Trump and American politics along with Horoscope 2026.