WHO Identifies New COVID-19 Variant, Named 'Nimbus'; Reported To Feel Like 'Razor Blades' In Throat

New Delhi: Covid variant NB.1.8.1, known as Nimbus, has been classified by the World Health Organization as a "variant under monitoring." Although it has led to an increase in COVID-19 cases in India, with over 7,000 active infections and more than 70 recent deaths, the WHO states it may not be more severe than existing variants.

The variant has emerged as a seasonal presence, showing a significant uptick in symptoms, notably a severely painful sore throat likened to feeling "razor blades." Cases of NB.1.8.1 have been reported in China, Hong Kong, the US, Australia, and the UK. By mid-May, it accounted for nearly 11% of sequenced COVID samples globally.

The variant's symptoms also include fever, chills, cough, and loss of taste or smell. WHO confirms that current vaccines, including those by Moderna, Pfizer-BioNTech, and Novavax, remain effective against severe outcomes associated with Nimbus, which belongs to the Omicron JN.1 lineage. Precautionary measures such as masking in crowded areas, hand hygiene, and avoiding public spaces when unwell are recommended. Research suggests NB.1.8.1 has a stronger binding affinity to human cells, enhancing its transmissibility compared to earlier strains.

In India, while a decline in Covid-19 cases has been noted, with a recent count of 5,976 active cases, scientists indicate that the severity of illness remains low despite the emergence of new sub-variants like LF.7. The Union Health Ministry has advised the public to adhere to appropriate health behaviors and has conducted reviews of healthcare infrastructure to ensure preparedness. Active monitoring continues for Influenza-Like Illness (ILI) and Severe Acute Respiratory Illness (SARI) cases, with genome sequencing ongoing to track variants.

COVID-19 Updates:

As of 20 June 2025, India has 5,608 active COVID-19 cases, a decrease of 368 from the previous day. Cumulatively, 18,256 individuals have recovered, with 1,092 discharges since January 2025. The country has reported 120 deaths in total, with four new ones since yesterday.

Active cases include 44 in Andhra Pradesh and none in Arunachal Pradesh, while Assam and Bihar report 32 each. Delhi has 630 cases and 16 deaths since January. Gujarat has 912 active cases, and Kerala leads in recoveries with 6,083 but reported one death yesterday. Maharashtra and Tamil Nadu have 389 and 176 active cases, respectively. Goa, Mizoram, and Nagaland report minimal cases, while West Bengal awaits updated data.