Highly Contagious COVID Variant Detected in Six States, Including New York

A newly emerging strain of COVID-19, labeled NB.1.8.1, is raising concern among health officials due to its increased transmissibility and growing spread across the United States. Originating from China, the variant has been detected in travelers entering several states, including New York, California, Washington, Rhode Island, Virginia, and Hawaii.

According to public health authorities, this variant began appearing in the U.S. in March and has seen a sharp uptick in cases since May. In California alone, NB.1.8.1's presence has risen rapidly, from just 2% in April to nearly 19% by June.

Medical experts are particularly concerned that this new strain may lead to increased hospitalization rates due to its ability to spread more easily than previous variants. While current vaccines are still believed to offer protection against severe illness and symptomatic cases caused by NB.1.8.1, officials are closely monitoring its evolution.

The World Health Organization has labeled NB.1.8.1 a “variant under monitoring,” citing its growing presence in more than 20 countries. Despite its international spread, no travel restrictions have been imposed at this time.

Meanwhile, health systems in parts of China are seeing a significant rise in respiratory-related hospital visits. Reports indicate a jump in positive COVID-19 tests at emergency rooms with infection rates nearly doubling in recent weeks.

In the U.S., the dominant COVID strain remains LP.8.1, currently accounting for approximately 73% of infections. Still, the emergence of NB.1.8.1 has sparked discussions about reintroducing safety precautions such as masking.

Common symptoms associated with this strain mirror those of previous variants including fever, fatigue, coughing, shortness of breath, nausea, and loss of taste or smell.

Highly Contagious COVID Variant Detected in Six States, Including New York