How Dangerous is the New Covid-19 Variant NB.1.8.1, Which is Spreading Rapidly in Ho Chi Minh City?
As of early 2025, the COVID-19 pandemic in Vietnam has been effectively controlled. The number of new cases reported across the country as of May 19 was only 148, with no deaths. This is encouraging in the fight against the virus.
According to the Life & Law newspaper of Nguoi Dua Tin newspaper, Dr. Nguyen Huy Hoang of the Vietnam-Russia High-Pressure Oxygen Center (Ministry of Defense) stated that three main factors contributed to the successful control of the pandemic: high vaccine coverage, the flexible policy of categorizing COVID-19 as Group B from October 2023, and the proactive preparation of the healthcare sector in both treatment and infection control.
However, a new variant, NB.1.8.1, has recently emerged, making Ho Chi Minh City a hotspot for COVID-19. The number of cases increased from 51 on May 16 to 79 on May 25. 83% of the samples collected in the city belong to this new variant.
First detected in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 is a subvariant of the Omicron branch. On May 23, the World Health Organization classified NB.1.8.1 as a “Variant Under Monitoring” (VUM). There is currently no evidence to categorize this new variant as dangerous. However, it has been detected in at least 22 countries, including the US, France, Japan, South Korea, China, and Vietnam.
Dr. Nguyen Huy Hoang explained that NB.1.8.1 spreads quickly due to its multiple mutations in the spike protein region (RBD). This alteration enhances its ability to adhere to human cells, resulting in more efficient transmission. Nonetheless, the updated vaccines remain highly protective against NB.1.8.1, as they only reduce antibody effectiveness by 1.5-1.6 times, similar to previous variants.
According to VTC News, Dr. Truong Huu Khanh, Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Infectious Diseases Association, assured that the new variant, NB.1.8.1, is not a cause for concern and that there is no need for panic among the public. Dr. Khanh stated that the current wave of infections caused by this new variant is similar to previous waves triggered by other variants. The increase in detected cases may be attributed to enhanced testing rather than a surge in respiratory illnesses presenting at hospitals in Ho Chi Minh City.
Additionally, Dr. Khanh advised the public to view COVID-19 as a seasonal flu-like virus that will inevitably evolve over time. This is the natural course of such viruses.
There is no need for the public to rush for COVID-19 testing unless they are displaying symptoms or have been exposed to a confirmed case. Testing in such cases is crucial for early detection, isolation, and the protection of vulnerable individuals.
Symptoms of the New Covid-19 Variant NB.1.8.1
The new variant, NB.1.8.1, causes mild and prolonged symptoms such as fever, cough, nasal congestion, fatigue, digestive issues, and headaches. As these symptoms are common in respiratory illnesses, many people may underestimate their significance, leading to a potential silent spread of COVID-19 within the community.
Currently, Vietnam has not reported any hospitalizations or deaths associated with the new variant. However, a rapid increase in case numbers could overwhelm the healthcare system. During this critical phase, experts advise prioritizing the protection of high-risk individuals, including the elderly and those with underlying health conditions such as diabetes, renal failure, cardiovascular disease, asthma, or COPD.
If you or your loved ones experience any unusual symptoms, it is crucial to seek medical attention promptly to ensure timely diagnosis and treatment.
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