COVID-19 New Guidelines 2025 : Feeling uneasy about COVID-19 coming back? Discover clear, friendly guidance on the new NB.1.8.1 variant—its symptoms, spread, vaccines, and how you can stay safe. Is COVID coming back in 2025
Are We Back to COVID Fear Again?
It’s okay to feel anxious. Remember how hard 2020 was? Just when we thought it was behind us, a new variant—NB.1.8.1 from the Omicron family (nicknamed “Nimbus”)—has started circulating globally. And yes, it might affect you or someone you care for. Let’s talk it through—no panic, just practical help.
What Is NB.1.8.1 Variant ?
- First spotted in January 2025, NB.1.8.1 is now circulating in 20+ countries, including India, the U.S., UK, China, Australia, Thailand, and more
- In mid-May, it made up around 10–11% of global COVID sequences—up from just 2.5% in early April
- The WHO has labeled it a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) since 23 May 2025, meaning it’s being watched, but it’s not considered a major public health risk—yet
How It’s Different – Symptoms To Watch For
Symptoms are still familiar—fever, sore throat, cough, fatigue—but NB.1.8.1 brings a new twist: digestive issues like nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and even heartburn nicd.ac.za+15wired.com+15thesun.ie+15.
Here’s a helpful table of symptoms:
| Common Symptoms | New/Gastro Signs |
|---|---|
| Fever, cough, sore throat | Nausea, vomiting |
| Fatigue & muscle aches | Diarrhea, heartburn |
| Nasal congestion | Potential loss of appetite |
How Worried Should You Be?
Good news: Despite spreading faster, NB.1.8.1 doesn’t seem to cause more severe illness, hospital stays, or deaths than earlier variants .
That said, it is more transmissible, partly because mutations in its spike protein help it cling to human cells more easily ,But current vaccines and antiviral medicines, like nirmatrelvir, still work well
What’s the Situation in India Right Now?
- As of 9 June 2025, India has around 6,500 active cases, with ~300+ reported daily
indiatoday.in - States like Kerala, Gujarat, Delhi, West Bengal, Maharashtra, Karnataka, Odisha, and UP are leading in infection numbers .
- Kerala is seeing the highest burden—a repeat of past waves
FAQ: Your Questions, Answered
Is NB.1.8.1 more deadly than Omicron?
It spreads easier, but hasn’t shown any increase in severity—hospitalizations or deaths remain similar
Will my vaccine still protect me?
Experts agree current vaccines continue to protect you from severe illness and hospitalization .
What should I do if I get digestive symptoms with a fever?
Rest, hydrate, and isolate at home for at least 48 hours or until you feel better. Monitor symptoms and consult a doctor if needed
Are children at particular risk?
They’re not at higher risk than others. But if there’s someone elderly or immunocompromised at home, taking those extra precautions and staying current on pediatric boosters is wise .
Is COVID going around 2025?
Yeah, COVID is still here in 2025—just not as intense as it was back in 2020 and 2021. We’re seeing new variants like NB.1.8.1, which is spreading in some parts of the world, including India. But don’t panic—it’s mostly causing mild symptoms for most people, especially those who’ve been vaccinated.
Is COVID coming back in 2025 in India?
It’s definitely showing up again. As of June 2025, India has reported around 6,500 active cases. The numbers are lower than the worst waves we’ve seen, but states like Kerala, Gujarat, and Maharashtra are seeing a rise. Health experts are keeping a close watch, but thanks to vaccines and past exposure, it’s less severe this time around.
Will corona come again?
Unfortunately, COVID-19 isn’t going away completely anytime soon. Like the flu, it might stick around for years, with new variants popping up every now and then. But the good news? With vaccines, treatments, and better awareness, we’re in a much stronger place to handle it than before.
What are the side effects of the COVID vaccine in 2025?
A sore arm where you got the shot
Tiredness or slight fever
Headache or body aches