Latest news with #Nimbus
The Star
12 hours ago
- Health
- The Star
Health Ministry: New Covid-19 vaccines now available
PETALING JAYA: A new batch of Covid-19 vaccines is now available, says the Health Ministry. In a post on X, it said the vaccines are available at government health clinics. 'For your information, the vaccines are new and are not from the old stocks.' The ministry posted on June 5 that the vaccines are effective against the latest variants. It added that the mRNA vaccines are from Pfizer Inc. The post has since been reposted by Health Minister Datuk Seri Dr Dzulkefly Ahmad. Dzulkefly said in a separate post on X that the highly transmissible NB.1.8.1 variant has not been detected yet in Malaysia. This variant, also known as Nimbus, has been identified as the cause of the resurgence of cases in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, Thailand and the United Kingdom. In Malaysia, the JN.1 is the dominant variant currently making up 17% of the variants detected. This is followed by XEC (7.9%), KP.3 (5.2%), KP.3.1.1 & LB.1 (3.2%) and LF.7 & LP.8.1 (0.65%). Dzulkefly said each country has different dominant variants; for example, the JN.1 in Thailand (63.92%), LF.7 & NB.1.8 (66%) in Singapore and the NB.1.8.1 (XDV subvariant) (12.5%) in China. 'Globally, the top three variants are predominantly LP.8.1 (34%), JN.1 and its related sub-variants (22%) and XEC (16%). 'The World Health Organization (WHO) considers the global risk from JN.1 to be low, but its high transmission rate may cause more cases, especially in winter or where immunity is low,' he said. Dzulkefly advised the public to maintain good personal hygiene, wear face masks when unwell or in crowded environments, and receive vaccinations. Thailand has reported over 28,000 new Covid-19 cases within the span of two days. India has experienced a sudden increase in cases since late May, with the number of active infections now exceeding 5,000.
Daily Mirror
a day ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Covid rates surge 97% as new infectious variant gains foothold in UK
A new strain of Covid has been discovered in the UK as rates of positive tests have soared 97% since the beginning of March. NB.1.8.1 COVID-19 variant, sometimes referred to as the Nimbus variant, has been detected in at least 12 cases so far in Britain. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) said Nimbus is making up a "growing proportion" of Covid cases worldwide. Latest UKHSA data up shows a 97% increase overall in the number of positive Covid tests since, with 6.1% of people giving a reading for the virus on June 1 compared to just 3.21% at on March 1. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA's deputy director, said the agency was monitoring Nimbus. She said: "UKHSA is monitoring all available data relating to SARS-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad, and we continue to publish our findings in our regular Flu and Covid-19 surveillance reports. "NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases." People testing positive, or who are suffering symptoms of a respiratory infection, are advised to avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible. Symptoms include a high temperature and not feeling well enough to go to work or carry out normal activities. A statement from the UKHSA added: "The most important thing to do is to get your vaccination when it is due if you're eligible. "It's normal for viruses to mutate and change, and as more data becomes available on this variant, we'll have a better understanding of how it interacts with our immune systems and how to optimise our protection, as well as actions we can take to keep the most vulnerable safe and live our lives as normally as possible." The World Health Organisation (WHO) said the new Nimbus strain accounted for just over 10% of all global cases in May. 'The NB.1.8.1 variant, also referred to as Nimbus, is a new strain of the Covid-19 virus that has emerged due to mutations in its genetic material,' says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. It's a sub-variant of Omicron, says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'Variants like this pop up when the virus mutates, which is normal for viruses, especially ones that spread widely,' explains Tang. 'NB.1.8.1 was first picked up in early 2025 and has since been detected in several countries, including the UK, China and US. It's got some new mutations that scientists are keeping a close eye on.'
Daily Mail
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mail
Shock Covid warning: Ultra-catchy 'Nimbus' variant could trigger summer wave amid 97 per cent infection surge
A new highly contagious Covid variant could spark a wave of infections this summer, scientists have warned. Dubbed 'Nimbus', the strain is descended from the already super virulent Omicron and has already triggered a surge in cases in China, Singapore and Hong Kong. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) also shows 13 cases of Nimbus, known scientifically as N.B.1.8.1, have already been detected in England. And 25 British samples of the strain have been submitted to an international Covid database since the end of March. However, both figures are likely an underestimation of how far the variant has spread given how testing has been massively reduced from the height of the pandemic. Other UKHSA data show the percentage of people testing positive for Covid has risen to its highest point this year, and is already 97 per cent higher than the level recorded in March. Now, British scientists have warned Nimbus could lead to a surge in Covid cases in a matter of weeks, and have urged the vulnerable to get vaccinated. They warn that many people's immunity to the virus, built up from previous infections and older jabs, has likely faded meaning they could be at higher risk of falling ill. Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at Warwick University, said Nimbus had the potential to drive a surge in cases as the weather warms up and people become more sociable. 'We are very likely to see a spike of infections over the next couple of months, possibly by later this month or in July. But it's difficult to predict the level of this infection wave,' he told The i Paper. 'Population immunity, either from vaccination or previous infection, is waning and, unlike other respiratory viruses such as flu, the Covid virus continues to spread in hot and humid weather,' he said. He added lab studies suggest Nimbus can infect human cells more efficiently than previous strains, and that it may have increased ability to dodge the immune system, making it more likely to infect people. There is currently no evidence that the strain is more likely to cause severe illness or death in those it infects, compared to previous strains. However, infection with the virus can still be deadly for more vulnerable groups. Covid was a factor in the deaths of just over 300 people in England in May, according to the latest official figures. Nimbus now accounts for 10.7 per cent of Covid infections worldwide, according to the World Health Organisation (WHO), compared to just 2.5 per cent a month prior. Last month the UN-body declared the strain a 'variant under monitoring'. This means that the WHO is tracking the virus, watching for signs it could pose a significant threat to the public which would promote it to a 'variant of concern'. Experts have also said that current Covid vaccines, which have been reformulated to combat Omicron descendants, are expected to remain effective against Nimbus. Symptoms of Nimbus do not appear to differ from other Covid variants and include fatigue, fever, muscle ache and a sore throat. UKHSA data on Covid tests, which goes up to June 1, show 6.1 per cent of the people who were tested that week were positive for the virus, the highest figure for 2025 so far. This is a seven per cent rise from last week's figure and a 97 per cent increase from that recorded at the beginning of March. Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA's deputy director, said the organisation was keeping a close eye on Nimbus. 'UKHSA is monitoring all available data relating to SARS-CoV-2 variants in the UK and abroad, and we continue to publish our findings in our regular Flu and Covid-19 surveillance reports,' she said. 'NB.1.8.1 has been detected in small numbers in the UK to date, but international data suggests that it is growing as a proportion of all Covid-19 cases.' Currently adults over the age of 75, care home residents staff as well as people with a weakened immune system are eligible for a free Covid vaccine in Britain. UKHSA data suggests people who had a Covid jab as part of last spring's booster campaign were 45 per cent less likely to need hospital care for the virus in the weeks that followed compared to the unvaccinated. The agency has urged all people eligible for a vaccine to get jabbed to protect themselves from both NB.1.8.1 and Covid in general.
Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
Symptoms of 'different' Nimbus virus as UKHSA confirms it has reached UK
Doctors say the virus appears to be able to spread easily and has already been detected in 22 countries For many of us, Covid-19 feels like a chapter we've closed – along with the days of PCR tests, mask mandates and daily case updates. But while life may feel back to normal, the virus hasn't completely vanished. In fact, new variants continue to quietly circulate. One of the latest to appear on the radar is NB.1.8.1 – a name that you may have seen pop up in headlines and on social media feeds this week. This newly emerging sub-variant hasn't triggered widespread concern, but it has caught the attention of scientists and health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced this week that NB.1.8.1 has so far only been detected in small numbers within the UK, but added that international data indicates that the sub-variant is steadily accounting for a growing share of global Covid-19 cases. We consulted some GPs to find out exactly what sets the NB.1.8.1 Covid variant apart from the rest. Is it more contagious, more immune-evasive, or simply another step in Covid's slow evolution? Here's what they know so far… What is the new NB.1.8.1 Covid variant and where has it come from? 'The NB.1.8.1 variant, also referred to as Nimbus, is a new strain of the Covid-19 virus that has emerged due to mutations in its genetic material,' says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. It's a sub-variant of Omicron, says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. 'Variants like this pop up when the virus mutates, which is normal for viruses, especially ones that spread widely,' explains Tang. 'NB.1.8.1 was first picked up in early 2025 and has since been detected in several countries, including the UK, China and US. It's got some new mutations that scientists are keeping a close eye on.' How is Nimbus different from previous variants? 'NB.1.8.1 isn't too different from the Omicron variant, but it does have some tweaks to its spike protein, which might make it spread a bit more easily or slip past some of our existing immunity,' says Tang. 'That said, early signs suggest it doesn't seem to cause more serious illness, but of course, we're still learning more about it.' However, Nimbus does appear to be more transmissible than previous variants, with notable increases reported in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, notes Asif. 'Its spread has been identified in around 22 countries,' says Asif. 'The World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the additional risk to the global public as currently low, and existing Covid-19 vaccines are considered effective in preventing severe disease.' How is Nimbus spreading? 'It's spreading in the usual way, person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze or even just talk closely,' says Tang. 'Like other variants, it can hang around in the air in poorly ventilated spaces.' What Nimbus Covid symptoms should people look out for? 'Common symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 variant include severe sore throat (described as a 'razor blade sensation'), fatigue, mild cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion,' says Asif. 'However, symptoms can vary widely so vigilance is key.' What are the Nimbus treatment options? 'Treatment for Nimbus generally aligns with that for other Covid-19 variants,' says Asif. 'Most individuals will recover at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom management. 'For those with severe symptoms or high-risk complications, antiviral medications or monoclonal antibody treatments may be recommended. Always consult your GP for personalised advice.' How can you avoid getting the Nimbus variant? 'Make sure everyone's up to date with their Covid-19 jabs, especially boosters,' recommends Tang. 'Wash your hands regularly, keep rooms well ventilated, and consider popping a mask on in busy places or if you're around people who are more vulnerable. 'If someone in the house is feeling poorly, try to keep some distance and clean shared surfaces regularly.' When should you see a GP about Covid? 'Seek medical advice if you experience Covid-19 symptoms, especially if they worsen or if you have underlying health conditions that increase your risk,' advises Asif. 'Additionally, consult your GP if you've been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the NB.1.8.1 variant or if you have health concerns.'
Wales Online
2 days ago
- Health
- Wales Online
Doctors explain symptoms of UK's new Nimbus Covid and why it's different
Doctors explain symptoms of UK's new Nimbus Covid and why it's different The UKHSA has confirmed the subvariant mutation has now reached the UK People describe having a very sore throat with the new variant For many of us, Covid-19 feels like a chapter we've closed – along with the days of PCR tests, mask mandates and daily case updates. But while life may feel back to normal, the virus hasn't completely vanished. In fact, new variants continue to quietly circulate. One of the latest to appear on the radar is NB.1.8.1 – a name that you may have seen pop up in headlines and on social media feeds this week. This newly emerging sub-variant hasn't triggered widespread concern, but it has caught the attention of scientists and health officials. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) announced this week that NB.1.8.1 has so far only been detected in small numbers within the UK, but added that international data indicates that the sub-variant is steadily accounting for a growing share of global Covid-19 cases. We consulted some GPs to find out exactly what sets the NB.1.8.1 Covid variant apart from the rest. Is it more contagious, more immune-evasive, or simply another step in Covid's slow evolution? Here's what they know so far… What is the new NB.1.8.1 Covid variant and where has it come from? 'The NB.1.8.1 variant, also referred to as Nimbus, is a new strain of the Covid-19 virus that has emerged due to mutations in its genetic material,' says Dr Naveed Asif, GP at The London General Practice. It's a sub-variant of Omicron, says Dr Chun Tang, GP at Pall Mall Medical. Article continues below 'Variants like this pop up when the virus mutates, which is normal for viruses, especially ones that spread widely,' explains Tang. 'NB.1.8.1 was first picked up in early 2025 and has since been detected in several countries, including the UK, China and US. It's got some new mutations that scientists are keeping a close eye on.' How is Nimbus different from previous variants? 'NB.1.8.1 isn't too different from the Omicron variant, but it does have some tweaks to its spike protein, which might make it spread a bit more easily or slip past some of our existing immunity,' says Tang. 'That said, early signs suggest it doesn't seem to cause more serious illness, but of course, we're still learning more about it.' However, Nimbus does appear to be more transmissible than previous variants, with notable increases reported in India, Hong Kong, Singapore, and Thailand, notes Asif. 'Its spread has been identified in around 22 countries,' says Asif. 'The World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the additional risk to the global public as currently low, and existing Covid-19 vaccines are considered effective in preventing severe disease.' How is Nimbus spreading? 'It's spreading in the usual way, person to person, mainly through respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze or even just talk closely,' says Tang. 'Like other variants, it can hang around in the air in poorly ventilated spaces.' What Nimbus Covid symptoms should people look out for? 'Common symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 variant include severe sore throat (described as a 'razor blade sensation'), fatigue, mild cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion,' says Asif. 'However, symptoms can vary widely so vigilance is key.' What are the Nimbus treatment options? 'Treatment for Nimbus generally aligns with that for other Covid-19 variants,' says Asif. 'Most individuals will recover at home with rest, hydration, and over-the-counter medications for symptom management. 'For those with severe symptoms or high-risk complications, antiviral medications or monoclonal antibody treatments may be recommended. Always consult your GP for personalised advice.' How can you avoid getting the Nimbus variant? 'Make sure everyone's up to date with their Covid-19 jabs, especially boosters,' recommends Tang. 'Wash your hands regularly, keep rooms well ventilated, and consider popping a mask on in busy places or if you're around people who are more vulnerable. Article continues below 'If someone in the house is feeling poorly, try to keep some distance and clean shared surfaces regularly.' When should you see a GP about Covid? 'Seek medical advice if you experience Covid-19 symptoms, especially if they worsen or if you have underlying health conditions that increase your risk,' advises Asif. 'Additionally, consult your GP if you've been in close contact with someone who has tested positive for the NB.1.8.1 variant or if you have health concerns.'
