COVID-19 is back in the news, however, experts have time and again said that the virus will now work like a seasonal disease with new variant coming up as the season changes. Rightly so, the virus is back with two new variants making rounds - Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) and Stratus (XFG). Health and Me had previously also reported on the surge in COVID-19 cases in UK, and the US. So, how concerned should you be?Viruses EvolveMedicine history is a proof that viruses evolve over time. This is also the case with the latest variants Nimbus and Stratus, which are the sub-variants of Omicron. Nimbus was first reported in China, this year, and has been spreading across Europe and the US. Whereas, Stratus is now rapidly seen in the UK. These both are now common strains. As per the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), they do not make people sick the way COVID-19 earlier used to. However, the variants are more contagious in nature, thus are better at spreading from person to person. Why Nimbus Is Unique?Scientists have noted that Nimbus has a strong protein that is better at attaching itself with human cells. As compared to the earlier variants, it is up to 2.5 times more efficient and highly transmissible.While it does not have a severe symptom. It has an unusual symptom that causes "razor blade" like sore throat. People usually report a sharp pain while swallowing food or beverage. Other symptoms that are similar to earlier variants are fatigue, mild cough, nasal congestion, and in some cases people may experience nausea. What Makes Stratus Unique?Stratus works a little differently from Nimbus. While it does not have a strong hold on cells, it evades immune responses better. This makes it easier for the virus to dodge antibodies. This means, the infection can happen in people even when they have been recently vaccinated.However, the ray of hope is that like Nimbus, this virus also have not shown signs of severe illness. However, it can catch people off guard, especially now that other diseases like flu and RSV are also on the rise. Should People Be Concerned?As per the experts, while the number of cases are on rise, there is no evidence that suggests that these variants are more dangerous than the ones previously reported. As per Dr Alex Allen, who is a consultant Epidemiologist at the UKHSA said, "Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the variants cause more severe disease or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them."What Precautions Should One Keep In Mind?Ensure your vaccines are updated, especially if you have any elderly persons in your family, or those with chronic illness, ensure they are well protected. If entering a crowded place, use masks and hand sanitisers.Make sure your house is ventilated well, as it cuts down the risk of airborne spread. Listen to your body, if you feel sick, get it tested. It is not just a seasonal flu, it may be COVID. Keep test kits handy.
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