With Covid making a comeback in the US, it’s important to stay informed about the current situation.
Five years ago, the coronavirus pandemic brought life as we knew it to a halt. Worldwide, many were furloughed, schools closed, and even local cafes shut down temporarily.
Masks were mandatory, hand sanitizer became essential, and ‘social distancing’ and ‘lockdowns’ were a part of daily vocabulary.
Three years after the pandemic started, the World Health Organization (WHO) announced the end of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As life began to return to normal, two new Covid variants emerged in America, spreading nationwide and presenting some unusual symptoms.
Here’s what we know about these recent strains, labeled ‘Stratus’ and ‘Nimbus’.
Although the names might remind you of something from Harry Potter, these are not magical broomsticks like the ‘Nimbus 2000’.
The variant known scientifically as NB.1.8.1 was initially found in China in January before spreading to Europe, Australia, and North America.
This new strain has undergone genetic changes that enhance its ability to attach to human cells, allowing it to spread rapidly.
Experts are still investigating the implications for symptoms and vaccine resistance, but it’s clear that this variant is gaining attention.
If infected with this Covid subvariant, symptoms will likely resemble those of a common cold or flu, though one notable symptom stands out.
Many people experience an extremely painful sore throat—described as sharp and stabbing, particularly during the initial phase of infection, making swallowing quite uncomfortable.
Other frequent symptoms include extreme fatigue, a lingering cough, congestion, fever, muscle pain, and sneezing.
Some individuals have also reported gastrointestinal issues such as nausea or diarrhea, though these are less common.
Overall, while not pleasant, the symptoms are generally less severe than those of earlier virus waves. It’s advisable to rest if you start feeling unwell.
Stratus, scientifically termed ‘XFG’, first appeared in Southeast Asia in January and by June had reached 38 countries.
The World Health Organization is actively monitoring and investigating this variant.
While Nimbus spreads rapidly and is identified by a ‘razor blade’ sore throat, Stratus demonstrates ‘marginal additional immune evasion’ compared to Nimbus, according to the WHO.
This means it can better evade the immune system, making detection more challenging.
For those who haven’t been vaccinated against Covid, this variant could be more difficult to combat.
Similar to Covid-19 and Nimbus, the symptoms are akin to those of a cold or flu.
Common symptoms include a persistent dry cough, fever, and fatigue.
Some individuals have also reported a sore throat, chest tightness, brain fog, gastrointestinal disturbances or loss of appetite, body aches, and headaches.
Loss of taste or smell has been noted but is less common.
The CDC reports that nationwide Covid wastewater levels, an indicator of community spread, are at ‘moderate’, but notes that at least four US states have ‘very high’ levels.
Dr. Aaron Glatt, an infectious disease expert from Mount Sinai Hospital in New York, told Today.com that severe throat pain is a significant issue, describing it as ‘if their throat is covered with razor blades’.
He stated: “While not specific to Covid-19, this expression has been used to describe sore throat symptoms in some patients with the most recent Covid-19 variant.”
There are also concerns about declining Covid vaccination rates contributing to a potential increase in cases, as a CDC panel voted against recommending the shots as a routine measure.
Dr. Tyler Evans, who served as New York City’s chief medical officer during the pandemic’s first wave, warns that Coronavirus is ‘clearly on the rise again’.
He told The Daily Mail: “While we’re in a much better place than in 2020, rising transmission still poses a risk to those with underlying conditions or limited access to care. Concern should lead to preparedness, but not panic.”
Dr. Evans added: “The dominant strain in the US right now is an Omicron subvariant called Nimbus (NB.1.8.1). It spreads quickly but is not more severe than earlier forms.”
While not more dangerous than previous strains, Dr. Evans noted that it can still pose risks for older adults, people with chronic conditions, and those with weakened immune systems.
Dr. Laura Malone, director of the Pediatric Post-Covid-19 Rehabilitation Clinic at Kennedy Krieger Institute in Baltimore, emphasized to the New York Times that even mild infections can lead to long-term effects, such as long Covid.
“Just because you got through your first infection and didn’t develop long Covid, it’s not that you are completely out of the woods,” she explained.
On a positive note, Covid wastewater levels are showing signs of decline, particularly in the week of September 13, although Nevada, Connecticut, Utah, and Delaware report ‘very high’ levels.