Two new COVID-19 variants, known as Nimbus and Stratus, are making waves across the US, prompting concerns about their spread and impact. The NB.1.8.1 strain, or Nimbus, is currently the dominant variant and has been identified as a major contributor to the uptick in cases reported in Connecticut. This variant has earned notoriety as being highly transmissible, according to CT Mirror.
The XFG variant, now referred to as Stratus, was recently recognized by the World Health Organization as a variant under monitoring. As reported by Hudson Valley Post, it is the third most common variant in the US, with significant activity noted on the West Coast and parts of the Midwest.
Nimbus has garnered the nickname "razor blade throat" because of its association with severe sore throat symptoms. Dr. Husnain Kermalli from Saint Mary's Hospital remarked that hoarseness and gastrointestinal issues like nausea are notable symptoms, according to the CT Mirror. In contrast, Stratus is often connected to a scratchy voice.
Read more on Chicago Star:
- Summer finale at Navy Pier: Festivals, fireworks, music, food and fun
- Why NASCAR Chicago Street Race isn’t returning in 2026
- Rib tips and rich history: What makes Lem’s Bar-B-Q so special
- Misericordia Family Fest: Food, fun and music for a great cause
Health experts advise that the symptoms of these new variants align closely with those of previous strains. Dr. Ulysses Wu at Hartford HealthCare indicated that common symptoms like cough, fever, and fatigue persist with both the Nimbus and Stratus variants.
Despite the emergence of these new strains, health officials affirm that the current COVID-19 vaccines remain effective in preventing symptomatic and severe cases of the disease, as noted by the Arizona KOLD. Vaccination remains a key defense strategy alongside other preventive measures, including mask-wearing and staying home if symptomatic.
As these variants gain traction, health authorities continue to monitor their development, encouraging the public to remain vigilant and adhere to vaccination schedules to mitigate the spread.
(0) comments
Welcome to the discussion.
Log In
Keep it Clean. Please avoid obscene, vulgar, lewd, racist or sexually-oriented language.
PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR CAPS LOCK.
Don't Threaten. Threats of harming another person will not be tolerated.
Be Truthful. Don't knowingly lie about anyone or anything.
Be Nice. No racism, sexism or any sort of -ism that is degrading to another person.
Be Proactive. Use the 'Report' link on each comment to let us know of abusive posts.
Share with Us. We'd love to hear eyewitness accounts, the history behind an article.