A new Covid-19 strain, known as NB. 1.8.1, has been detected in Northern Ireland and Wales and is "more transmissible" than previous variants, the World Health Organisation has observed.

The intergovernmental organisation has labelled the variant as "under monitoring" since 23rd May, but it was first detected back in January.

This newcomer to the virus scene has surged from 2.5% of global cases to an alarming 10.7% by late April 2025, according to WHO data.

At least 22 countries have reported cases of the NB. 1.8.1 strain, including China, Australia, Thailand and the USA.

With the strain now washing up on the shores of Britain, there are worries that it will rapidly take hold as the nation moves into winter months later this year.

The WHO has expressed concern over the variant's mutat

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