The Latest Covid-19 Variant Could Pose A Risk In Utah

The pandemic feels so far away but in reality, it's only been a few years since it happened, and even now new COVID-19 variants are circulating.  

However, just like the flu or other infections, it seems to have become a more normal part of life across the world. The current vaccinations and perhaps with all the people who did contract it, have made it seem less menacing for most.  

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Utah regularly sees COVID-19 circulating but not at an alarming rate.  

There was a surge of COVID-19 cases across the U.S. this time last year, but most states seem to either be on the decline or seeing no change as of June 5, 2025, according to the World Health Organization. 

The Latest COVID Variant 

There is one new strain of COVID-19 that WHO is slightly concerned about, NB.1.8.1, which was discovered earlier this year. Though this variant is like all the other recent ones and vaccines will work on it, it has one unique trait.  

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It takes a bit more for antibodies to neutralize the NB.1.8.1 virus, which makes it more transmissible.  

The good news is that there doesn’t seem to be any difference in symptoms or severity in NB.1.8.1. Utah is also not seeing a change, according to the CDC trends website. However, WHO is seeing an increase in NB.1.8.1 cases across its monitoring areas which means that Utah could eventually be impacted.  

With COVID-19 becoming a normalized part of life, these trends are important to keep track of. This way during outbreaks and sick seasons, just like the cold and flu, you can better protect yourself and be prepared.