In May 2025, U.S. health authorities confirmed the detection of a new SARS-CoV-2 variant, designated NB.1.8.1.
This subvariant, a descendant of the JN.1 lineage of Omicron, has been identified in international travelers entering through airports in states such as California, Washington, Virginia and New York.
What is the NB.1.8.1 variant?
NB.1.8.1 is a subvariant of the JN.1 lineage, which in turn is part of the Omicron family, responsible for the majority of global infections since 2022.
Although it has not yet been classified as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization (WHO), it has been placed under surveillance due to its rapid spread in Asian countries and its recent detection in the United States.
Symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1
Symptoms reported so far with NB.1.8.1 are similar to those of other Omicron variants and include:
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Fever or chills
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Cough
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Sore throat
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Fatigue
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Headache
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Nasal congestion or discharge
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Muscle aches and pains
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In some cases, gastrointestinal symptoms such as diarrhea, diarrhea, diarrhea
It is important to note that, although the symptoms are usually mild, the duration of the disease may be longer compared to other variants.
Transmissibility and severity
Experts point out that NB.1.8.1 has a higher transmission capacity compared to previous variants, although there is no evidence that it causes more severe disease. The main concern lies in its rapid spread, which could lead to an increase in the number of cases and, consequently, greater pressure on health systems.
In view of the appearance of NB.1.8.1, health authorities recommend resuming basic prevention measures that have proven to be effective:
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Use of face masks in enclosed or poorly ventilated spaces
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Frequent hand washing and use of antibacterial gel
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Adequate ventilation of interior spaces
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Avoid contact with people showing respiratory symptoms.
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Isolate in case of symptoms compatible with COVID-19.
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Apply available vaccination boosters, especially in elderly people or those with comorbidities.
La población debe tomar las medidas de precaución necesarias para la nueva variante del COVID
Considerations for the Hispanic community in the U.S.
Buzzy
Para los hispanos que residen en Estados Unidos, es fundamental mantenerse informados sobre las actualizaciones relacionadas con COVID-19 y seguir las recomendaciones de las autoridades sanitarias.
La vacunación sigue siendo una herramienta clave para prevenir enfermedades graves y hospitalizaciones.
Además, es importante no bajar la guardia y continuar con las medidas de prevención, especialmente en comunidades con alta densidad poblacional.
La variante NB.1.8.1 representa un recordatorio de que el virus SARS-CoV-2 continúa evolucionando.
Si bien no se ha demostrado que esta subvariante cause una enfermedad más grave, su alta transmisibilidad podría generar un aumento en los casos.
Por ello, es esencial que la población, especialmente las comunidades hispanas en Estados Unidos, permanezcan vigilantes, sigan las recomendaciones de salud pública y se mantengan informadas sobre las actualizaciones relacionadas con el COVID-19.
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