New COVID-19 Variant ‘Nimbus’ Spreading, Causing Severe Sore Throat

Doctors are alerting the public about a new variant with a painful symptom.

A fresh wave of COVID-19 cases is hitting India, as a new variant, nicknamed ‘Nimbus’, gains global attention. This strain is causing an unusual symptom: an intensely painful sore throat, prompting public health officials to monitor its spread closely.

The Nimbus Variant: What to Know

The NB.1.8.1 variant, also known as ‘Nimbus,’ has quickly circulated, spreading through China and Hong Kong. According to reports, cases have been documented in several US states including California, Washington, Virginia, and New York. Australia has also reported cases, and the UK recorded 13 instances in June, accompanied by a rise in hospitalizations.

The main reported symptom of the Nimbus variant is a severely painful sore throat, also associated with fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell. The World Health Organization (WHO) indicates that, while it’s spreading, it doesn’t seem to cause more severe illness than earlier strains and is currently considered low risk.

“The WHO assesses the additional risk to the global public as currently low, and existing COVID-19 vaccines are considered effective in preventing severe disease,”

—Dr. Naveed Asif, General Practitioner

By mid-May, NB.1.8.1 accounted for nearly 11% of all sequenced COVID samples worldwide, which signals an increased circulation. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that COVID-19-related hospitalizations rose 10% nationwide during the week ending July 13, 2024 (CDC).

Vaccines and Prevention

Vaccines approved by the US FDA, including Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax, are expected to offer protection against NB.1.8.1, especially since it’s part of the Omicron JN.1 lineage. People with health issues, such as diabetes, heart disease, or hypertension, should take extra precautions due to potentially weaker immune responses.

Scientists believe NB.1.8.1 spreads quickly due to its stronger binding with human cells. Dr. Chun Tang suggested slight changes to its spike protein might make it more transmissible or help it evade immunity.

Prevention measures remain consistent: Masking up in crowded spots, covering the mouth during coughs or sneezes, regular handwashing, and avoiding public spaces when unwell. Ventilated areas are safer, especially during transmission spikes.