Just when we thought we’d finally put the worst of COVID behind us, a new variant has quietly made its way from Asia to our own backyard.
The latest culprit? NB.1.8.1—a name that sounds more like a robot from a sci-fi film than a virus, but it’s already making headlines for all the wrong reasons.
What is NB.1.8.1 and why should we care?
First detected on 21 January, NB.1.8.1 has been under the microscope of global health authorities ever since.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) only added it to their official watchlist on 23 May, but in that short time, it’s managed to become the dominant strain in Western Australia.
Recent wastewater testing in Perth revealed that NB.1.8.1 is now the main variant circulating in the state, coinciding with a 24 per cent jump in daily COVID cases last week.
While the numbers might sound alarming, there’s a silver lining: according to the WHO, NB.1.8.1 doesn’t appear to cause more severe illness than previous variants.
So, while it’s more contagious, it’s not necessarily more dangerous—at least, not in terms of the severity of symptoms.
What are the symptoms?
If you’re wondering what to look out for, NB.1.8.1’s symptoms are a familiar mix, but with a few twists. They include:
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Nausea
- Dizziness
- Loss of appetite
- Blurred vision
- Fatigue
- Inability to concentrate
- Hyperthermia (elevated body temperature)
Some of these, like blurred vision and trouble concentrating, might catch you off guard.
If you’re feeling a bit ‘off’ and can’t quite put your finger on it, it might be worth considering a COVID test—especially if you’re in a high-risk group.
How bad is it overseas?
NB.1.8.1 has already made its presence felt across Asia. In Hong Kong, officials have reported a ‘significant increase’ in cases, with the highest levels seen in over a year and 81 severe cases in the past month alone.
Over in China, emergency room visits and hospitalisations for COVID have doubled, with about 6 per cent of patients requiring hospital care.
Dr Edwin Tsui, head of Hong Kong’s Centre for Health Protection, has warned that this new variant shouldn’t be underestimated. There’s some concern that NB.1.8.1, a descendant of the Omicron strain, could be mutating to become more resistant to current vaccines.
That’s not to say our vaccines are useless, but it’s a reminder that the virus is still evolving—and so must our defences.
What’s happening in Australia?
Here at home, the rise of NB.1.8.1 has prompted health authorities to keep a close eye on the situation.
The jump in cases in Western Australia is a timely reminder that COVID hasn’t disappeared, even if it’s faded from the headlines.
At the same time, flu cases are also on the rise in WA, with state authorities urging everyone—especially those over 65 or with underlying health conditions—to get their flu shot.
The good news? Free flu vaccines are available for anyone over 65, including visitors to the state. If you haven’t had yours yet, now’s the time to roll up your sleeve.
Should we be masking up again?
In Hong Kong, officials are once again recommending face masks in public, especially for those at higher risk or when using public transport and in crowded places.
While Australia hasn’t reintroduced mask mandates, it’s worth considering a mask if you’re in a busy indoor space or travelling, particularly if you’re in a vulnerable group.
What about vaccines?
There’s been some debate about vaccine recommendations, especially after the US announced it will no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for children and healthy pregnant women.
Here in Australia, the advice remains: if you’re eligible for a booster, especially if you’re over 65 or have health issues, it’s wise to stay up to date.
The situation is fluid, and recommendations may change as more is learned about NB.1.8.1 and other emerging variants.
Staying safe: Practical tips
- Stay informed: Keep an eye on updates from your state health department and the federal government
- Get vaccinated: Both for COVID and the flu, especially if you’re over 65
- Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands regularly and avoid touching your face
- Consider a mask: Especially in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces
- Monitor your health: If you develop symptoms, get tested and stay home if you’re unwell
Your turn: How are you feeling about the latest COVID news?
We know COVID fatigue is real, and it’s easy to tune out the latest updates. But with new variants like NB.1.8.1 on the rise, it’s worth staying vigilant—especially for those of us in the over-50s club.
What are your thoughts on the recent rise in COVID cases? Do you think renewed precautions such as masking are necessary at this stage? How should communities balance caution with returning to normal routines? Feel free to share your insights and experiences in the comments below.
Also read: Experts push back on US COVID-19 vaccine stance—is science ignored?
I am in WA. I asked my GP if I should have another Covid jab as I had 7 when we had Covid here. 7 Waa a bit OTT but I hadn’t realised that between my pharmacy and my GP that I had had so many. I think it’s up to the individual. I am over 65 and I have had my flu jab. So not too sure about another Covid jab. What do you think?
I’m 75 and also live in WA. The problem is even with several boosters new variants keep emerging. I’m wondering if masks in crowded places like shopping centres and scrupulous hand sanitising might be the best way forward.
I am in the vulnerable older group. I’ve had 7 covid vaccinations as per advice since the whole thing started, and I plan to keep following our official health recommendations as it’s the best information available.
Whenever there is another outbreak/publicised increase in cases, I wear a P2/N95 mask when mingling in public eg shopping centres etc. So far I have not contracted covid and still hope not to, as firstly I hate being sick and secondly we don’t yet know enough about its longterm effects on our health.
This announcement should be taken with a grain of salt:- “There’s been some debate about vaccine recommendations, especially after the US announced it will no longer recommend COVID-19 vaccines for children and healthy pregnant women.”
Why, the person now the Director of the US Health System is RFK Jr, an avid anti-vaxxer, who has recently stated that the MMR Vaccine is NOT Safe !!!!