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Fresh COVID concern: NB.1.8.1 variant found in US, after China, India surge
The CDC confirmed cases of the variant in California, Washington, Virginia, and New York City through its airport screening program
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Author
A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, linked to a significant surge in cases in China, has been detected among international travelers arriving at US airports, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) airport screening program.
The variant, which has sparked global concern due to its rapid spread in Asia, was identified through the CDC’s Traveler-Based Genomic Surveillance program, conducted in collaboration with Ginkgo Bioworks, CBS News reported.
Detection at US Airports
A CBS News report has confirmed multiple cases of NB.1.8.1 among arrivals in California, Washington, Virginia, and the New York City area.
This airport testing program is designed to monitor emerging infectious diseases and involves voluntary nasal swab testing and sequencing to detect new variants. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified NB.1.8.1 as a SARS-CoV-2 Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) because of its rising global spread. This variant, originating from the recombinant XDV.1.5.1, was first detected in a sample collected on January 22, 2025, and was officially designated a VUM on May 23, 2025.
Global Spread
Reports suggest that NB.1.8.1, which is part of the JN.1 group of variants, may spread more easily than other variants. However, it doesn’t seem to cause severe illness.
As per reports, the travelers at the US airport had travel histories from several countries, including Japan, South Korea, France, China, and others. In China, NB.1.8.1 has been linked to a surge in hospitalizations, particularly in urban centers. Local health authorities have reported increased pressure on healthcare systems, prompting renewed calls for mask-wearing and vaccination campaigns.
India Situation
In India, the NB.1.8.1 variant has been detected, with one case reported in Tamil Nadu in April 2025, alongside four cases of the related LF.7 variant in Gujarat in May, according to the Indian SARS-CoV-2 Genomics Consortium (INSACOG).
As of 26 May 2025, India recorded 1009 active COVID-19 cases. The numbers have risen almost four times in a week, up from 257 cases reported till 19 May this month.
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