New Covid variant found in UK with list of symptoms issued amid 'stay at home' advice

Top health officials have urged Brits with Covid symptoms to "stay at home" as England grapples with the emergence of a novel coronavirus variant named NB. 1.8.1, whilst hospitals witness a bump in admissions.

Currently identified in a modest tally of 13 cases across England, this fresh concern emerges from recent data by UK Health Security Agency, displaying a small uptick in national Covid rates.

Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, insightfully reported: "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all COVID-19 cases."

The deputy director also reassured, stating: "Based on the available information so far however, there is no evidence to suggest that this variant causes more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against it.", reports the Mirror.

Signaling increased vigilance, the WHO incorporated NB. 1.8.1 into its watch list as of May 23, keeping tabs alongside five other variants under scrutiny.

First identified earlier this year, by late April 2025, the strain comprised approximately one-tenth of all global infections, demonstrating a notable jump from earlier counts, the WHO indicated.

The WHO has sparked concern, hinting that the new strain might be more infectious than previous versions. Despite this, it doesn't seem to exacerbate symptoms or lead to more severe illness.

In the UK, the latest health advice shows no restrictions in place but vigilance urged. The WHO insists that travel bans are unnecessary in response to the latest Covid variant developments.

According to a report, the health body urges "Member States should continue offering COVID-19 vaccines in line with WHO recommendations. Based on the current risk assessment of this event, WHO advises against imposing travel or trade restrictions."

UKHSA's guidance for Brits experiencing Covid symptoms: stay indoors if possible and steer clear of the vulnerable. A blog post from the agency stressed: "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible."

They also emphasised that "Vaccines remain our best defence against severe disease and hospitalisation from flu and COVID-19."

Those eligible can still snag their spring 2025 Covid booster until June 17 through the NHS App, website, or by ringing 119.

As for Covid symptoms to watch out for with variant NB. 1.8.1, it remains crucial to be alert.

The symptoms of the new strain are thought to be similar to previous variants of the Covid virus. The NHS has stated that common symptoms of Covid-19, which closely resemble those of other illnesses like colds and flu, include:.

According to the NHS, most individuals with Covid recover within a few weeks, but recovery can take longer for some. For certain people, it can manifest as a more severe illness with prolonged symptoms.