COVID-19 Strain ‘Nimbus’: Symptoms of the New Variant and Its Spread Worldwide

A new subtype of the coronavirus, known as strain NB.1.8.1 or ‘Nimbus’, is rapidly spreading in over 20 countries and belongs to the ‘Omicron’ group.

This is reported by AgroReview

Main Symptoms and Features of the ‘Nimbus’ Variant

Medical professionals note that the clinical picture of infection with the ‘Nimbus’ strain is generally similar to previous variants of COVID-19, but it has one distinctly pronounced symptom. Patients exhibit:

• cough;
• nasal congestion;
• headache;
• fatigue;
• sore throat;
• fever (in some cases);
• gastrointestinal disturbances (nausea, diarrhea).

“According to virologist Lara Herrero from Griffith University, the most pronounced symptom is a severe sore throat, which patients describe as a ‘razor blade sensation’. This feeling is considered a hallmark of the NB.1.8.1 variant.”

Experts emphasize that the intensity of symptoms may vary depending on individual characteristics and vaccination status. Meanwhile, the World Health Organization stresses that current vaccines remain effective against ‘Nimbus’.

Spread and Additional Threats

According to estimates by physician Navid Asif, cases of infection with the new variant have already been identified in approximately two dozen countries. The medical community continues to closely monitor the evolution of the virus and any potential changes in its properties.

Scientists also point out another potentially dangerous threat: in China, researchers have detected the HKU5-CoV-2 coronavirus in a population of bats for the first time. This virus has a genetic link to MERS, which in the past led to high mortality rates—up to one-third of infection cases.

Experts state that there is currently no reason to believe that the NB.1.8.1 strain causes more severe forms of the disease than previous variants; however, its ease of transmission remains a subject of careful monitoring by medical professionals.