Amid a rise in COVID-19 cases in India, a new variant, NB.1.8.1, known as 'Nimbus' due to its painful sore throat symptom, is gaining attention. Some patients have reported experiencing a sensation akin to 'razor blades' in their throats, according to doctors.

Spread of Nimbus

The NB.1.8.1 variant has rapidly spread to China, Hong Kong, the US (California, Washington, Virginia, New York), Australia, and the UK. By mid-May, it accounted for 11% of sequenced COVID samples globally.

Symptoms

The primary symptom of the Nimbus variant is an excruciating sore throat. Other symptoms include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell. The WHO states that this variant does not cause more severe illness than previous strains.

WHO's Perspective

The WHO classifies NB.1.8.1 as a 'variant under monitoring,' indicating it is not a significant threat. Current COVID-19 vaccines are effective against severe outcomes linked to this variant.

Vaccine Protection

Vaccines like Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax are expected to offer protection against NB.1.8.1, as it belongs to the Omicron JN.1 lineage. Staying up-to-date with boosters is crucial for enhanced protection.

Factors Contributing to Faster Spread

Scientists believe NB.1.8.1 spreads more efficiently due to its strong binding with human cells. This variant has a high affinity for the ACE2 receptor, which aids in cellular entry.

Preventive Measures

Precautions such as wearing masks, practicing good hygiene, and avoiding crowded places are essential to prevent the spread of the Nimbus variant. Ventilation in enclosed spaces is crucial, particularly during high transmission periods.

Understanding the Nickname

The name 'Nimbus' does not reference 'Harry Potter' or 'Rick and Morty' characters but rather a type of cloud. Naming conventions like 'Nimbus' help in tracking and communicating about emerging variants to the public.