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A new COVID-19 variant, officially known as NB.1.8.1 and informally nicknamed Nimbus, has arrived in the US after surging in China and other parts of Asia. Here’s what to know:
What is Nimbus?
* Nimbus is a subvariant of the Omicron lineage of the SARS-CoV-2 virus.
* It was first detected in China in January and has since spread to over 20 countries.
* The World Health Organization (WHO) designated NB.1.8.1 as a “variant under monitoring” in May, indicating it requires prioritized attention and tracking due to its increased prevalence and potential public health implications.
Transmissibility:
* Nimbus appears to be more transmissible than previous variants.
* It has mutations that are believed to make it bind more efficiently to human cells, allowing it to spread faster.
* As of early June, it accounted for approximately one-third of COVID-19 cases in the US and is rapidly gaining ground.
Symptoms:
* The most notable and frequently reported symptom associated with Nimbus is an unusually intense sore throat, often described as feeling like “swallowing razor blades.”
* Other symptoms are generally similar to previous Omicron variants and can include:
* Fever or chills
* Cough
* Shortness of breath
* Congestion or runny nose
* Fatigue
* Muscle or body aches
* Headache
* New loss of taste or smell
* Nausea, vomiting, or diarrhea (less common)
Severity:
* Despite its rapid spread and the particularly painful sore throat, early data suggests that Nimbus does not cause more severe illness overall compared to previous variants.
* Routine surveillance has not revealed an increase in hospitalizations or deaths directly attributable to Nimbus.
* However, individuals who are unvaccinated or immunocompromised may still be at higher risk for severe outcomes.
Vaccine Effectiveness:
* Current COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against Nimbus, particularly in preventing severe disease, hospitalization, and death.
* Health experts continue to recommend vaccination, especially for those at higher risk of severe COVID-19.
What to do:
* Stay vigilant and continue to follow public health recommendations.
* If you experience symptoms, especially a severe sore throat, it’s advisable to get tested and consult with a healthcare professional if symptoms persist or worsen.
* Basic measures like handwashing and mask-wearing can still help protect against the spread of the virus.