COVID-19 variant 2025 continues to impact communities worldwide, with ongoing cases and evolving vaccine efforts. Though deaths and hospitalizations have dropped, the virus hasn’t disappeared. A new variant is spreading globally. At the same time, vaccine policies in the U.S. are changing under the Trump administration.
Where Do COVID-19 Cases Stand Now?
In May 2025, the CDC reported over 40,000 positive COVID-19 tests. Around 735 deaths occurred that month. The national positivity rate sat at 3%. Hospitalizations were lower than during previous peaks, but concern remains for vulnerable people.
Meet NB.1.8.1: The Latest COVID Variant
The new strain, NB.1.8.1, first appeared in China in January. As of mid-May, it accounted for 10.7% of global COVID cases, according to the WHO.
Only fewer than 20 U.S. cases were reported by late May, too few for the CDC to list officially.
NB.1.8.1 is an evolved version of LP.8.1, which made up 70% of U.S. cases from April to May. According to experts, NB.1.8.1 spreads more easily and dodges existing antibodies better than earlier strains.
Symptoms of NB.1.8.1
Symptoms remain familiar:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath
- Loss of taste or smell
- Fatigue
- Muscle aches
- Nausea or vomiting
Vaccine Policy Just Changed Under RFK Jr.
On May 27, 2025, HHS Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. removed COVID vaccines from the CDC’s recommended immunization list for healthy children and pregnant people. This breaks with past health guidelines.
Now, only seniors (65+) and people with medical conditions are recommended to get vaccinated.
Who Can Get the Vaccine Now?
If you’re healthy and under 65, the vaccine:
- May cost up to $200
- Might not be covered by insurance
- Could be harder to access
Even health care workers are impacted by the new policy.
What’s Next for COVID Shots?
It’s unclear if new boosters will come in 2025. The FDA canceled its usual vaccine advisory meeting. A Moderna contract for bird flu research was also cut.
RFK Jr., known for his vaccine skepticism, is facing criticism for promoting false claims about vaccines while measles outbreaks rise.
Bottom Line
The pandemic isn’t over. A new variant is on the rise. And vaccine access just got harder. While some Americans may now skip their shots, the risk remains real for many.
Source: USA Today
