A new COVID-19 variant, known as “Nimbus”, is spreading rapidly across the globe, with hospital admissions in the UK rising by almost 10% over the past month. The World Health Organisation (WHO) is closely monitoring the spread of the variant, which has been detected in small numbers in the UK but is growing in proportion to all COVID-19 cases internationally.
According to Dr. Naveed Asif, a GP at London General Practice, people infected with the Nimbus variant are experiencing severe sore throats, often described as a sharp stabbing pain when swallowing. This symptom can be managed with rest, fluids, and painkillers, but it’s essential to seek medical attention if symptoms persist or worsen.
While vaccines currently approved are effective against the new variant, there is some concern about their efficacy. Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam of the UK Health Security Agency noted that there is no evidence to suggest that Nimbus causes more severe disease than previous variants, and that the current vaccines will still provide protection.
The NHS advises individuals who think they have COVID-19 to stay at home, but if symptoms persist or worsen, it’s crucial to consult a GP or call 111. If someone is experiencing serious distress, such as struggling to breathe, dial 999 immediately.
Source: https://www.independent.co.uk/news/health/covid-nimbus-variant-symptoms-sore-throat-razor-blade-b2771254.html