Global Health Alert: Highly Contagious 'Nimbus' Variant Could Spark COVID Surge This Summer
British scientists have raised concerns about a newly detected and highly contagious COVID-19 variant known as "Nimbus" (NB.1.8.1), which may fuel a sharp surge in infections over the summer. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the percentage of positive cases has reached its highest level in 2025 so far.
Data up to June 1st shows a 6.1% positivity rate — a 97% increase since March. The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that Nimbus now accounts for 10.7% of global COVID cases, up from just 2.5% a month ago.
Experts warn that Nimbus may be more efficient at infecting human cells and better at evading immune protection from previous infections or outdated vaccines. The WHO currently classifies Nimbus as a "variant under monitoring," but its rapid growth could lead to its reclassification as a variant of concern.
Health authorities are urging elderly individuals and those with weakened immune systems to receive booster shots, especially since the current vaccines tailored for Omicron may offer reduced protection.
Nimbus has already driven case surges in countries like China, Singapore, and Hong Kong. So far, no evidence suggests it causes more severe illness or increased mortality.
"What is happening in Yemen? What caused the war? And who ignited it?
Also read
Millions of people suffer from kidney disease without knowing it, as symptoms often remain silent until the condition progresses. According to Times Now, signs that appear in the l...
Yemen s Minister of Public Health and Population, Dr. Qasem Buhaybah, revealed that the country records 30,000 new cancer cases each year, warning that this situation requires the ...
Comments