New Covid-19 Variant NB.1.8.1 Spreads in Asia — What It Means for South Africa, Says NICD

As the world adapts to life alongside Covid-19, a new variant, NB.1.8.1, has surfaced and is rapidly spreading across Asia, drawing global attention. South African health authorities are actively monitoring the situation and have assured the public that, for now, the country faces no immediate threat. The National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) and Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi have both provided updates, outlining the steps South Africa is taking to stay prepared.

ALSO READ: G20 Sherpas Meet in South Africa to Drive Global Economic Solutions

The Emergence of NB.1.8.1

NB.1.8.1, a descendant of the Omicron lineage, has emerged primarily in China and several other Asian countries. While Omicron and its subvariants have driven numerous global infection waves, scientists are closely examining NB.1.8.1 to assess its transmissibility and severity.

As of 10 June 2025, the NICD confirmed that South Africa has not yet detected any cases of the NB.1.8.1 variant. The NICD’s respiratory illness syndromic surveillance programmes, which track respiratory infections across selected public and private hospitals and outpatient facilities, continue to gather this data.

The Current Covid-19 Situation in South Africa

Currently, South Africa reports low levels of SARS-CoV-2 infections. NICD data shows that Covid-19 cases remain minimal across the country. Instead, as winter settles in, influenza cases have begun to rise, following the seasonal trend.

Despite NB.1.8.1’s spread in other parts of the world, South African health officials emphasize that local Covid-19 transmission remains under control. This provides some relief as the country enters its peak season for respiratory illnesses.

How South Africa Stays Prepared

During the G20 Health Working Group meeting in Johannesburg, Health Minister Dr Aaron Motsoaledi reassured attendees of South Africa’s preparedness. He highlighted the country’s strong surveillance and monitoring systems, which have evolved through years of responding to Covid-19.

“I wish to reassure this esteemed gathering that South Africa has robust surveillance systems in place. Our NICD manages a comprehensive sentinel surveillance programme that systematically tests for key respiratory viruses, including SARS-CoV-2, influenza, and RSV (Respiratory Syncytial Virus),” said Motsoaledi.

He added that while officials are monitoring NB.1.8.1, the situation does not warrant additional public health interventions at this stage. “The new variant remains a descendant of the Omicron lineage. Therefore, at this stage, no specific new public health actions are required from the public,” he stated.

The Ongoing Importance of Hygiene

Although authorities see no immediate need for new restrictions, they continue to stress the importance of practicing basic hygiene, especially as flu cases rise. They urge South Africans to wash their hands regularly, cover coughs and sneezes, and stay home when experiencing symptoms.

“These simple measures are effective in reducing the spread of all respiratory illnesses,” Motsoaledi emphasized. The NICD echoed this, advising those who feel unwell to limit contact with people at higher risk of severe respiratory illness, such as the elderly and individuals with underlying health conditions.

ALSO READ: How To Make Homemade Flu Remedies

Continued Monitoring and Future Updates

Health officials remain vigilant and committed to monitoring both local and international developments. South Africa’s established surveillance networks will quickly detect any changes in the behavior or spread of NB.1.8.1, and officials will update the public as needed.

The NICD continues to analyze data and has pledged to share any significant updates on Covid-19 variants promptly.

The global emergence of the NB.1.8.1 variant has sparked concern, but South Africa’s situation remains stable. Strong surveillance systems, low current Covid-19 case numbers, and consistent public health vigilance position the country to respond effectively if the variant arrives.

For now, authorities advise South Africans to maintain good hygiene, stay informed through credible sources, and trust in the country’s well-prepared healthcare infrastructure. As the world continues to navigate Covid-19’s evolving landscape, South Africa’s readiness stands as a testament to the hard lessons learned throughout the pandemic.