COVID Variants
Stay informed about the latest COVID-19 variants, their characteristics, and health implications. Information sourced from WHO, CDC, and ECDC databases, last updated: 2025-06-22.
Latest Update
NB.1.8.1 variant spreading rapidly across 22 countries, representing 10.7% of global sequences.Read full report →
NB.1.8.1
Rapidly spreading descendant of XDV.1.5.1 with enhanced transmissibility mutations.
Common Symptoms
KP.3.1.1
Previously dominant variant in the US, now declining as new variants emerge.
Common Symptoms
XEC
Hybrid recombinant of two JN.1 variants showing increased transmission.
Common Symptoms
LP.8.1
Recently dominant globally but now declining as NB.1.8.1 increases.
Common Symptoms
KP.3
Parent lineage of KP.3.1.1 with similar characteristics but lower prevalence.
Common Symptoms
MC.1
Descendant of KP.3.1.1 showing gradual increase in circulation.
Common Symptoms
Understanding COVID Variants
What Are Variants?
COVID-19 variants are versions of the virus that have genetic changes. Some variants spread more easily, cause more severe illness, or reduce the effectiveness of treatments or vaccines.
Learn more about variants →Stay Protected
Regardless of the variant, vaccination, masking, and good hygiene remain the best protection against COVID-19 and its variants.
View prevention guidelines →