A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, nicknamed “Nimbus,” is rapidly becoming one of the most common strains in the US. As of early June, it made up 37% of COVID-19 cases nationwide, according to the CDC. The agency notes that the estimate has limited precision due to a low number of sequences being reported.
The Nimbus variant originated in China and has since spread to at least 22 countries. Virologists describe it as a “slightly upgraded” version of its predecessor, LP.8.1. While there’s no evidence that it causes more severe disease, it appears to be highly transmissible.
Reports of the variant have been detected in New York and several other US states, including California, New Jersey, and Illinois. Symptoms of NB.1.8.1 are similar to those of other COVID-19 strains but include a distinctive severe sore throat, often described as “razor-blade throat fatigue.”
Health experts emphasize that updated COVID-19 vaccines remain the best protection against severe illness. Vaccination rates vary widely by state, and officials urge eligible individuals to stay current with their shots.
For those in need of a COVID-19 vaccine or testing, options are available at local doctor’s offices, clinics, pharmacies, county health departments, urgent care clinics, community health centers, and through at-home test kits. To find vaccination sites near you, visit vaccines.gov.
Source: https://eu.democratandchronicle.com/story/news/2025/06/26/new-covid-variant-nimbus-detected-in-new-york-what-to-know/84368896007