New Covid Variant ‘Nimbus’ Under WHO Watch: Key Facts and Symptoms

A newly emerging COVID-19 variant known as Nimbus is raising concerns globally. Here’s a closer look at the key facts, symptoms, and current status of this variant.

Key Facts

• Variant Name: NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus)
• Lineage: Descendant of Omicron
• First Identified: January 2025
• Symptom Highlight: “Razor blade throat” – intense sore throat
• Global Presence: Detected in 22 countries

Symptoms (Similar to Omicron)

• Cough, fever, headache, fatigue, congestion
• Muscle aches, nausea or vomiting
• Loss of taste/smell
• Severe sore throat in some cases (“razor blade throat”)

What Is “Razor Blade Throat”?

• Not a medical term, but a popular description of severe throat pain
• Feels like glass shards in the throat
• Common in other viral and bacterial infections

Is Nimbus Dangerous?

• WHO risk level: Low
• Causes mild to moderate illness
• No major surge in hospitalizations or deaths reported yet
• Current vaccines remain effective

India’s Situation

• Daily cases: 100–200, stable as per Dr Arup Halder
• No confirmed Nimbus cases, but authorities are cautious
• Rise in respiratory illnesses due to H3N2 and adenovirus
• ICMR urges testing for severe symptoms, especially in vulnerable groups

Other Variant – XFG (Stratus)

• Another fast-spreading Omicron subvariant
• Fewer sequenced cases compared to Nimbus

Summary/Static Details

• Why in the news? “New Covid Variant ‘Nimbus’ Under WHO Watch: Here’s What You Need to Know”
• Variant Name: NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus
• WHO Status: Variant under monitoring
• Primary Symptom: Highlight “Razor blade throat” (painful sore throat)
• Detected Regions: US (13 states), UK, parts of Asia, India (not confirmed)
• Public Health Risk: Assessed as Low by WHO
• Vaccines: Still effective against this variant
• India Status: Stable COVID cases, no confirmed Nimbus cases

Key Takeaways for Competitive Exams

Understanding the key facts about the Nimbus variant and its symptoms is crucial for staying informed about the latest developments in the fight against COVID-19. Remember these points for your competitive exam preparation:

• Nimbus is a descendant of Omicron and known for causing a severe sore throat described as “razor blade throat”.
• While the variant has a low WHO risk level, it is essential to monitor its spread and impact on public health systems.
• Current vaccines are effective against Nimbus, and public health authorities are keeping a close watch on its prevalence.