Overview

• The Omicron subvariant NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus, was first identified in January and labeled a ‘variant under observation’ by the WHO in May.
• Its share of global infections has climbed sharply, driven by spike protein mutations that enhance transmissibility, with significant prevalence in Asia.
• Infections with NB.1.8.1 often feature intense “razor-sharp” throat pain accompanied by fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches, and loss of smell or taste.
• Health agencies report no evidence of more severe disease compared to other variants and affirm that existing COVID-19 vaccines should prevent serious illness.
• In Germany, NB.1.8.1 remains sporadic with low case numbers, and health officials advise high-risk people to get a fall booster.