By John Q. Hosedrinker 
New COVID-19 variants, XFG (Stratus) and NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus), are currently the dominant strains in the UK, potentially causing a “razor blade” sore throat along with typical COVID-19 symptoms. While these variants do not appear to be more dangerous, recent genetic changes may increase the likelihood of infection. COVID-19 rates are rising, particularly among the young and elderly, leading to an increase in hospital admissions. Public health advice remains consistent: avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, stay home when symptomatic, and practice good hygiene.
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COVID cases are rising with new variants “Nimbus” and “Stratus,” and it seems like we’re all talking about it. My first thought is, wow, the names are getting creative! “Nimbus” and “Stratus”? It’s like we’re in some kind of weather report, and I find that kind of amusing, given the situation. It’s hitting people, and it’s hitting them hard. I’m hearing reports of people experiencing it for the first time, and others who are already veterans of the COVID experience, and for a lot of them, it’s pretty rough. People are reporting feeling completely wiped out.
The new variants are causing a lot of people to feel incredibly sick, and that razor blade throat is back. It’s something people remember from previous encounters with the virus, and not in a good way. There’s also talk of high fevers, sleepless nights, and an inability to distinguish between reality and nightmares. It sounds brutal. And, unfortunately, it’s not just a one-off experience for some. There are folks who are now on their fourth bout with the virus, even after getting vaccinated. That’s something to consider as well. The fact that vaccines are not completely stopping the spread, or the symptoms, is important to recognize.
Thankfully, vaccination is a topic that’s getting a lot of attention, and for good reason. The general consensus seems to be “get the shot.” Several people are reporting recently getting vaccinated. It’s a mix of getting the latest COVID shot, some people are getting the flu vaccine at the same time, and for some it’s a feeling of privilege to be getting it. In some places, getting the vaccine doesn’t require a discussion about risk factors, it’s just available. And while there’s a lot of talk about new variants, it seems the vaccines are still being recommended.
The reports are reflecting that it is definitely not just a US issue. Some people are talking about what is happening in the UK, with many reporting several people on their work team being sick.
What’s also interesting is the tone. There’s a real sense of frustration mixed with a dark humor about this. The naming of the variants as Nimbus and Stratus is definitely a source of some of that humor, making light of a situation that, frankly, many would rather avoid. There’s also the acknowledgement of the current lack of official numbers in some places, which leads some to worry that we won’t know how many cases there are.
It feels like we’re in a holding pattern, waiting for the next chapter. There are people making light of the situation, with the reference to Harry Potter.
Ultimately, it seems that “Nimbus” and “Stratus” are making their presence felt. Even with vaccines available, people are still getting sick, and the experiences are ranging from unpleasant to downright awful. I think the key takeaway here is to stay informed, listen to public health recommendations, and most importantly, take care of yourself and others.