New Covid variant detected in the US: What you need to know

The United States has identified multiple cases of a new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, which has been associated with the recent spike in infections across China. According to a report in the CBS, the variant was detected through the CDC's airport screening program in international travelers arriving at airports in California, Washington state, Virginia, and the New York City area, according to data from testing partner Ginkgo Bioworks.

Genomic sequencing results published on the GISAID database indicate that the infected travelers came from countries including China, Japan, South Korea, France, Thailand, the Netherlands, Spain, Vietnam, and Taiwan. The tests were conducted between April 22 and May 12.

In addition to airport screenings, health departments in Ohio, Rhode Island, and Hawaii have also reported cases of NB.1.8.1. The earliest U.S. cases date back to late March in California and Washington.


The variant, currently dominant in China, is spreading across parts of Asia. Hong Kong has reported its highest COVID-19 levels in a year, with rising emergency visits and hospitalizations. While Hong Kong authorities say NB.1.8.1 does not appear more severe than previous strains, they’ve advised mask-wearing in public transport.

Taiwan has also reported increases in severe cases and fatalities, prompting the government to stockpile vaccines and antiviral drugs.

Preliminary Chinese research suggests NB.1.8.1 is not more immune-evasive than other variants but shows stronger cell-binding abilities, potentially making it more transmissible.

During a recent FDA advisory meeting, vaccine makers Pfizer and Moderna presented data indicating that updated vaccines targeting the LP.8.1 variant may offer protection against NB.1.8.1. The panel recommended updating fall and winter vaccines to target a JN.1 variant, though opinions varied on which specific descendant to select.

According to CBS news, only one variant—XFC—is currently showing notable growth in the U.S. CDC officials say the virus is settling into a more predictable seasonal pattern, with biannual surges. Recent data show national COVID-19 rates have declined, based on ER visits and wastewater surveillance.