Just when we thought Covid was settling into the background, two new variants have quietly started spreading — and some of their symptoms aren’t what you’d expect.
A croaky voice, a sharp, almost cutting sore throat, and subtle but unusual signs are now appearing across Britain and the US. While experts insist the variants aren’t deadlier, the sudden spike in cases has left many wondering: what is really going on with Nimbus and Stratus?
The latest Covid variants, XFB (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), are causing infection rates to climb sharply in both Britain and the United States. Cases have doubled since August, with new and unusual symptoms emerging as early warning signs.
A raspy voice and a piercing, ‘razor blade’ sore throat are increasingly reported among patients, alongside more familiar complaints such as headaches, cough, fatigue, and nasal congestion.
Dr. Aaron Glatt, a US infectious disease specialist, explained that while these throat symptoms are not exclusive to Covid-19, they have been consistently noted in patients infected with these recent variants.
In the UK, the Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports that test positivity has risen from 7.6% to 8.4% in just one week, while hospital admissions climbed from 2.0 to 2.73 per 100,000. Meanwhile, in the US, national wastewater surveillance shows moderate viral levels overall, but four states are seeing very high levels, particularly in the northeast region.
Health authorities are urging people to take precautions. Covid tests are no longer free on the NHS but remain available for purchase at pharmacies. The UKHSA advises anyone showing respiratory infection symptoms, especially a high temperature or general malaise, to stay home and limit contact with vulnerable populations. Face coverings are recommended for those who must leave home.
Winter vaccination campaigns are underway, targeting over-75s, individuals with weakened immune systems, care home residents, pregnant women, and children. Toddlers are also eligible for the flu spray at community pharmacies. Some private clinics offer Covid boosters at up to £99 ($134).
The rise in cases coincides with the publication of a controversial South Korean study in Biomarker Research, suggesting Covid vaccines might increase cancer risk. Experts quickly dismissed the study as alarmist, emphasizing that there is no credible evidence linking Covid vaccination to tumor growth or suppression interference. The report has sparked debate but has been widely criticized for lacking explanation or solid scientific backing.
Conclusion
While Nimbus and Stratus are spreading faster than previous variants, experts stress they are not more dangerous than earlier Covid strains. The unusual symptoms — croaky voices and razor-like sore throats — may signal infection but do not indicate higher severity.
Vaccination, continued hygiene, and responsible behavior remain the best defense. Public health authorities urge staying home when ill and protecting vulnerable populations, while cautioning against panic over poorly supported studies. Awareness, vigilance, and timely vaccination are key to navigating the winter surge safely.