All you need to know on NB.1.8.1

NB.1.8.1: The Latest COVID-19 Variant on the Radar – What You Need to Know (and How to Stay Safe)

A new player has entered the global COVID-19 arena: the NB.1.8.1 variant. Designated as a "variant under monitoring" by the World Health Organization (WHO), this descendant of the Omicron subvariant JN.1 is rapidly gaining ground, and it's now officially in the UK, with confirmed cases in Northern Ireland and Wales.

So, what do we know about NB.1.8.1 and what does it mean for us here in the UK?

A Rapid Ascent in Prevalence:

First detected in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 has shown a remarkable surge in its global presence. As of mid-May 2025, it accounted for about 10.7% of global sequences, a significant jump from just 2.5% four weeks prior. It's now the dominant variant in China and Hong Kong and has been reported in at least 22 countries, including the US, Australia, and now, the UK.

Is it More Transmissible?

Experts believe that NB.1.8.1 may be more transmissible than previous variants. This heightened transmissibility is potentially due to an enhanced ability to bind to human cells, raising concerns that it could become a dominant strain in some regions, particularly as we head into the colder months.

Severity and Symptoms: What's the Current Picture?

Good news on the severity front: current data does not indicate that NB.1.8.1 causes more severe illness compared to other circulating variants. While some countries with widespread NB.1.8.1 transmission have seen an increase in cases and hospitalizations, this isn't necessarily linked to the variant itself causing more severe disease.

When it comes to symptoms, NB.1.8.1 largely mirrors other Omicron subvariants. You can expect the familiar culprits: fatigue, fever, muscle aches, sore throat, and nasal congestion. However, some reports suggest a more common occurrence of gastrointestinal symptoms like diarrhea, constipation, and nausea with this particular variant.

Vaccines Still Offer Protection:

For those wondering about vaccine effectiveness, the good news continues. Current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against NB.1.8.1 in preventing severe illness and hospitalization. Staying up to date with your vaccinations, if eligible, remains a crucial defense.

The Situation in the UK:

Confirmed cases of NB.1.8.1 have been reported in the UK, specifically in Northern Ireland and Wales. However, tracking the full extent of its spread within the UK presents a challenge. With reduced testing and genomic surveillance, it's becoming increasingly difficult for health experts to ascertain the true number of infections and the full scale of its transmission.

Staying Vigilant and Adapting: How The Hygiene Company Can Help

The WHO's advice remains clear: countries need to stay vigilant, adapt to evolving trends, and leverage existing COVID-19 management strategies. For us, the general public health advice remains consistent and valuable:

• Limit contact if you have respiratory symptoms.

• Wash your hands frequently and thoroughly.

• Wear masks in crowded places, especially if you're vulnerable or feeling unwell.

• Stay up to date with your vaccinations if eligible.

Beyond these general guidelines, businesses and individuals can take proactive steps to minimise the spread of NB.1.8.1 and other circulating pathogens. This is where effective hygiene solutions come into play.

At The Hygiene Company, we understand the importance of maintaining a clean and safe environment. Our range of products can help you combat the transmission of viruses like NB.1.8.1:

• Antibacterial Wipes: Our award-winning Wipepod® and refillable antibacterial wipes are crucial for quick and effective surface cleaning. These wipes are designed to kill and remove 99.99% of germs and bacteria, making them ideal for high-touch surfaces in offices, gyms, and public spaces. The convenience of our refill system also makes it an eco-friendly choice.

• Hand Sanitisers: Frequent hand hygiene is paramount. Our Liquidate range of hand sanitisers, suitable for both commercial and everyday use, offers powerful germ-killing action to keep hands clean when soap and water aren't available.

• Surface Disinfectant Sprays: For a comprehensive approach to surface hygiene, our Liquidate surface sprays provide multipurpose disinfection, ensuring a clean and hygienic environment in any setting.

• Wipe Dispensers and Cleaning Stations: To encourage consistent hygiene practices, our innovative wipe dispensers, including wall-mounted designs and those with integrated antiviral hand foamers and waste bins, make it easy for everyone to access hygiene products. Our comprehensive cleaning stations are an all-in-one solution for maintaining exceptional hygiene in your facilities.

By incorporating these effective hygiene solutions into your daily routine, you can significantly contribute to reducing the risk of transmission and keeping yourself, your staff, and your customers safe.

In essence, NB.1.8.1 is a new variant that's quickly spreading, including here in the UK. While it appears to be more transmissible, there's currently no evidence to suggest it causes more severe illness. Public health bodies are keeping a close eye on its development, and by continuing to follow sensible public health advice and leveraging reliable hygiene products from The Hygiene Company, we can all play our part in managing its impact.