A new COVID-19 variant, NB 1.8.1—also known as “Nimbus”—is driving a surge in cases across China and has now been detected in more than a dozen U.S. states, including California, New York, and Illinois.
The variant is highly contagious and causes symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, and a sharp sore throat, often described as “razor blade throat.” The CDC estimates that NB 1.8.1 already accounts for over a third of current U.S. cases.
Despite its rapid spread, global health experts say the variant is no more severe than previous strains, and the WHO has classified it as a “variant under monitoring,” noting that current vaccines are still expected to offer protection.
