Nimbus Covid Variant Causes UK Hospital Rise, Spreads Globally

The UK is experiencing a nearly 10% increase in Covid-related hospital admissions due to the spread of the Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) variant, which has been identified as highly transmissible but not more severe than previous strains. A distinctive symptom of Nimbus is a severe sore throat described as a "razor blade sensation" when swallowing, highlighted by Dr. Naveed Asif as unique to this variant. The NHS and UKHSA advise those with respiratory symptoms or Covid infection to self-isolate and avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, emphasizing rest, hydration, and pain relief for symptom management. Nimbus, first detected in January, has become the dominant strain in China, accounts for a third of US cases, and is driving new infection surges in Australia. Preliminary research suggests Nimbus binds more effectively to human cells, potentially increasing transmissibility and evading some immunity, though approved Covid vaccines remain effective according to WHO. Despite its spread, there is no evidence that Nimbus causes more severe illness compared to other Covid variants.