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A new, highly contagious Covid-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which has recently driven a surge in hospitalizations across China, has now been detected in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)1. The variant, already dominant in China, has been linked to a sharp increase in emergency room visits and hospital admissions, particularly affecting seniors.
Variant Detected in US Travelers
The CDC confirmed that NB.1.8.1 was first identified in international travelers arriving at major US airports, including those in California, Washington State, Virginia, and New York City, between late March and early April. Additional cases have since been reported in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii1. Surveillance suggests the variant is spreading globally, with travelers carrying the strain having recently passed through countries such as Japan, South Korea, France, Thailand, Vietnam, Spain, and the Netherlands.
Increased Transmissibility, Vaccine Evasion Concerns
Experts warn that NB.1.8.1 may be significantly more transmissible than previous strains. Dr. Subhash Verma, professor of microbiology and immunology at the University of Nevada, noted, “It appears to have a growth advantage, suggesting it may spread more easily”1. While there is currently no evidence that NB.1.8.1 is more deadly, scientists are concerned about its potential to evade vaccine protection.
Impact in China and Hong Kong
China has seen NB.1.8.1 become the dominant strain, resulting in spikes in hospital admissions and severe cases, especially among the elderly. Hong Kong authorities have reported the worst Covid surge in over a year, with 81 severe cases and 30 deaths in just four weeks, mostly among those over 651. Dr. Amy Edwards of Case Western Reserve University’s medical school highlighted the increase in hospitalizations where the variant has surged.
US Changes Covid-19 Vaccination Recommendations
Amid these developments, the US has stopped recommending routine Covid-19 vaccinations for healthy children and pregnant women. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., along with FDA Commissioner Marty Makary and NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya, announced the removal of Covid-19 shots from the CDC’s recommended immunization schedule for these groups. The CDC referred questions about the decision to Kennedy and the Department of Health and Human Services1. Some public health experts have criticized the move as confusing and lacking new supporting data.
Since the start of the pandemic, Covid-19 has caused over 1.2 million deaths in the US, with more than 1,300 childhood deaths reported, according to CDC data1.
Disclaimer:
This article is based on currently available information as of May 28, 2025. The situation regarding the NB.1.8.1 Covid-19 variant and public health recommendations may evolve as new data emerges. Readers are advised to consult official health authorities for the latest updates and guidance.
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