Latest news with #XFG


Irish Daily Mirror
2 days ago
- Health
- Irish Daily Mirror
The sneaky symptoms of new Covid variant behind 175 case surge in just one week
A surge in confirmed Covid cases across Ireland has been linked to a fast-spreading new variant with subtle symptoms that could catch people off guard. In the past week, 477 new cases of Covid have been reported nationwide - a sharp jump of 175 cases from the 302 recorded the week before. Health officials say the sudden rise is being driven in part by the XFG variant, also known as Stratus, which is rapidly gaining ground in Ireland. According to the latest data from Ireland's Health Protection Surveillance Centre (HPSC), the share of confirmed Covid cases linked to the XFG variant has risen dramatically, jumping from 16.3% two weeks ago to 40.9% this week - more than doubling in just a fortnight. The World Health Organization has labelled the Stratus strain a "variant under monitoring" and warned that while it may not lead to more severe illness, it appears to spread faster. One of the most unusual symptoms flagged by doctors so far is a hoarse or raspy voice, which some patients have reported before developing more classic signs of Covid. This sneaky early warning could go unnoticed and therefore allow the virus to spread quietly before people even realise they're infected. Dr Kaywaan Khan, a Harley Street GP and Founder of Hannah London Clinic, shared with Cosmopolitan UK that "one of the most noticeable symptoms of the Stratus variant is hoarseness, which includes a scratchy or raspy voice." Ireland's public health guidelines remain the same: If you have any symptoms of Covid, stay at home until 48 hours after the symptoms are mostly or fully gone. You should also avoid contact with other people, especially people at higher risk from Covid. The HSE is reminding the public of the wide range of Covid symptoms to look out for. These include: fever (high temperature - 38C or above) - including having chills dry cough fatigue (tiredness) loss or change to your sense of smell or taste – this could mean they're completely gone or just different to normal nasal congestion (runny or blocked nose) conjunctivitis (also known as red eye or pink eye) sore throat headache muscle or joint pain (aches and pains) different types of skin rash nausea or vomiting diarrhoea chills dizziness shortness of breath or breathing difficulties loss of appetite confusion pain or pressure in the chest. Subscribe to our newsletter for the latest news from the Irish Mirror direct to your inbox: Sign up here. For the latest news and breaking news visit Get all the big headlines, pictures, analysis, opinion and video on the stories that matter to you. Follow us on Twitter @IrishMirror - the official Irish Mirror Twitter account - real news in real time. We're also on Facebook/irishmirror - your must-see news, features, videos and pictures throughout the day from the Irish Daily Mirror, Irish Sunday Mirror and


Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
All about the 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus', the new COVID variants monitored closely by WHO
COVID-19 might not dominate the headlines anymore, but that doesn't mean it has stopped evolving. In fact, behind the scenes, scientists are closely tracking several offshoots of the Omicron variant. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Two of those, unofficially nicknamed Nimbus and Stratus, are now on the radar for their quick global spread and potential to evade immunity. Here's a closer look at what we know so far. Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) First spotted in early 2025, NB.1.8.1, or 'Nimbus', has made its presence felt quickly. It is currently listed as a 'variant under monitoring' (VUM) by the World Health Organization (WHO), - meaning they may require prioritised attention and tracking by health authorities due to their increased prevalence and potential public health implications. By late April, it had jumped from 2.5% to over 11% of all sequenced COVID-19 cases, especially across parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. Further, as per TODAY, 43% of cases in the U.S. are driven by this variant. Nimbus is part of the Omicron family, and it's a recombinant virus — a mash-up of different viral lineages that combined genetic material. It descends from a complex mix involving XDV, which itself was formed by blending JN.1 and another hybrid known as XDE. Symptoms of Nimbus According to the Global Alliance for Vaccines and Immunizations (Gavi), the symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 variant include: runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing, and sore throat. Additionally, people also might feel a razor blade sensation in the throat, which is the defining symptom for this variant, and gastrointestinal symptoms, including: nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, heartburn, bloating, constipation, and stomach pain. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now As of July 9, test positivity is at 3.1%, 0.1% higher than the previous week, according to the . The World Health Organization (WHO), in its May 23 evaluation, stated there's no current evidence that Nimbus is more dangerous than the other Omicron subvariants circulating today. Further, it also states that the currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are still expected to be effective against this variant. Stratus (XFG) First detected in Canada, Stratus (XFG) it's already made significant jumps into Europe and India. By late May, it was behind a quarter of new cases in parts of Europe, overtaking even Nimbus. Stratus, too, has been classified by the WHO as 'Variant under Monitoring'. Stratus is also a recombinant. It formed when two earlier variants, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, crossed paths and exchanged genetic code. Like most of its Omicron cousins, it spreads quickly, prefers the upper respiratory tract, and seems less likely to lead to severe illness. According to the current available data, symptoms of XFG are similar to those of other Omicron sub-variants which are typically mild upper respiratory symptoms. Symptoms of the XFG People infected with the XFG subvariant have reported a range of symptoms including: chills, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle and body aches, diarrhea, and in some cases, a loss of taste or smell. What sets XFG slightly apart, according to early reports, is one more noticeable symptom: hoarseness. Several individuals have described a rough or raspy voice, which may serve as a subtle clue when trying to distinguish this variant from other circulating strains.


NDTV
4 days ago
- Health
- NDTV
Covid-19 Summer Wave In The US: 25 States See Significant Increase In Cases, Reports CDC
From Florida to Texas, a total of 25 US states are witnessing a surge in Covid-19 cases. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of July 8, 2025, Covid-19 infections are growing or are likely to grow in 25 states, signalling the onset of a "summer wave." The CDC has attributed this resurgence of Covid-19 infections to fading immunity and emergence of new covid variants. According to a Johns Hopkins report, several virological, behavioural, and environmental factors drive summer Covid-19 waves. Additionally, human behaviours like increased use of air-conditioners, frequent social gatherings and travelling during the summer holidays also trigger transmission of the virus. New Covid-19 variants driving 2025 summer wave An uptick in Covid-19 cases in 25 US states has been linked to the rapid circulation of new covid sub-variants - XFG and NB.1.8.1. About NB.1.8.1 and XFG 'Nimbus,' scientifically known as NB.1.8.1, is an Omicron sub-variant. It is known to cause mild to moderate upper-respiratory symptoms. However, the variant gained attention due to its distinctive and extremely painful sore throat symptoms. Most infected individuals have described the severity of the throat pain as "razor blade throat". According CDC, Nimbus accounted for approximately 37% of US cases within two weeks as of June 7. The NB.1.8.1 sub-variant does not cause serious illness. However, it appears to be highly transmissible. XFG 'stratus' covid variant XFG Covid-19 variant (nicknamed Stratus) is spreading rapidly across the globe. The World Health Organisation has designated XFG as a 'Variant Under Monitoring,' which means that the variant or sub-variant needs prioritised attention. Several reports suggest that XFG could become the next dominant variant worldwide. XFG is also a descendant of the Omicron family. Some infected individuals have also reported hoarseness or a rough, raspy voice. Other than these distinct symptoms, both XFG and NB.1.8.1 are likely to cause omicron-like symptoms, including congestion, fatigue, mild cough, fever, loss of taste and smell, runny nose, loss of appetite and muscle aches. Less common symptoms include diarrhea and nausea. Disclaimer: This content including advice provides generic information only. It is in no way a substitute for a qualified medical opinion. Always consult a specialist or your own doctor for more information. NDTV does not claim responsibility for this information.


Time of India
4 days ago
- Health
- Time of India
COVID cases rising in 25 US States: How to stay safe during 2025's Summer Wave
The looming concern over yet another COVID-19 wave is here, as summer 2025 is witnessing a significant COVID‑19 surge across 25 US states – from Florida and Texas to California and Ohio – signaling the onset of a 'summer wave. ' After months of low transmission, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) notes that COVID is resurging due to fading immunity and the emergence of new variants, notably NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain. Historically, summer spikes follow holiday travel, indoor retreat during heatwaves, and increased social gatherings. While vaccines and treatments have greatly lowered severe outcomes, this renewed surge calls for the need for layered protection. What's driving the 2025 summer wave? As the CDC reports, rising infections are occurring in about half of the states in the United States of America, with 25 showing clear increases, particularly in Florida, Texas, and California, which is linked to declining immunity and fresh variants like NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) and XFG. Now, NB.1.8.1 – the Nimbus strain – is a dominant strain across 24–25 states. This strain, known for sore throat ('razor‑blade throat'), was first detected in March 2025. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like An engineer reveals: One simple trick to get internet without a subscription Techno Mag Learn More Undo This particular strain has become the prevailing strain nationwide, known for its high transmissibility and causing sore and painful throats. However, the strain isn't linked to more severe illness. On the other hand, XFG and LP.8.1 , the other Omicron descendant variants are currently present at notable levels in wastewater samples. Moreover, there's a twice-yearly seasonality pattern to note. Following emerging trends, COVID‑19 is settling into a biannual cycle – peaking in summer and winter. Experts deduce, this likely results from viral evolution and immunity decay. Similar patterns have been observed since 2020, driven by a mix of behavioral changes and viral adaptation. Additionally, summer heat leads people indoors, where air conditioning tends to reduce ventilation and raise transmission risk. Topping that, post-holiday travel and gatherings, especially around July 4, have historically fueled seasonal spikes. All of which explains the steep surge in infections. How to stay safe during the 2025 summer wave: Although infections are rapidly surging across US states, the summer wave of COVID-19 has mostly mild to moderate symptoms. Hospitalizations and deaths remain lower compared to earlier pandemic peaks. However, people who are aged 65+, immunocompromised, pregnant, and with chronic illness – continue to face elevated risk. Moreover, long COVID, which is an ongoing concern due to post-infection repercussions, such as fatigue and brain fog, is still reported, even after mild illness. On the face of this summer 2025 wave, here are some tips on staying safe. Vaccination and boosting: Updated boosters are recommended, especially for older, immunocompromised, or those whose last dose was >6 months ago. Fall 2025 boosters matching recent variants will likely be available. It's advisable not to delay current doses while waiting. Masks in high-risk settings: Mask is a must. ALWAYS advocate for using masks (N95/KN95) indoors when crowded or poorly ventilated, such as transit, airports, and events. Healthcare workers, caregivers, and those in contact with high-risk people must continue using masks. Testing and isolation: Keep rapid antigen tests at home. Test when symptoms emerge or after exposures. If positive, isolate for at least 5 days, and consider masking on days 6–10. Ventilation and outdoor options: Use fans, open windows, and HEPA filters to improve air circulation indoors. Opt for outdoor dining, events, or gatherings whenever feasible – instead of being cooped up indoors. Hygiene and symptom vigilance: Finally, go back to basics. Wash your hands frequently or use sanitizer. Avoid touching your face after contact with shared surfaces. Be alert to key symptoms, especially sore throat, fever, and fatigue, and act quickly. How to Stay Safe During Summer Heat Waves


Daily Mirror
4 days ago
- Health
- Daily Mirror
GP says summer habits could increase your risk of Covid-19
It's important to take care of your immune system all throughout the year, the expert said. A GP has issued a Covid warning for this summer, claiming that viruses 'don't stick to seasons'. While certain illnesses, such as coronavirus, are more common in the winter, this doesn't mean you are immune during the warmer months. Not only this, but some common summer habits could actually increase your risk of infection, he explained. This advice comes as a new Covid variant has become the predominant strain in the UK. Data from the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reveals that the XFG strain, dubbed Stratus, is rapidly spreading throughout England. And the World Health Organisation (WHO) has highlighted its "rapidly growing" global presence. With this in mind, NHS GP and resident doctor for at-home testing provider MyHealthChecked, Doctor Dave Nichols, advised that viruses 'don't stick to seasons' 'Pathogens circulate year-round,' Dr Nichols warned. He added that some holiday habits could also make things worse. He continued: 'Viruses like COVID-19, RSV, or even flu strains don't stick to seasons - in summer, factors like travel, stress, poor sleep and sun exposure can compromise immunity.' To limit your risk of getting Covid, he suggested strengthening your immune system. 'Immune resilience takes time - building and maintaining a strong immune system is a long-term effort, not just something to focus on when you're already sick or in winter,' he said. To do so you should: Get enough sleep: Aim for seven to nine hours. Poor sleep reduces immune cell activity Eat immune-supportive foods: Colourful fruits and vegetables (rich in antioxidants and vitamin C), fermented foods (yoghurt, kefir, kimchi) for gut health, garlic, ginger, and turmeric (anti-inflammatory effects) Stay hydrated: Helps flush toxins and keeps mucosal linings moist, which traps viruses more effectively Sunlight for vitamin D: 10 to 20 minutes of sun exposure each day can help maintain healthy levels (but consider supplements if deficient) Moderate exercise: Supports circulation and immune cell distribution. Avoid overtraining, which can temporarily suppress immunity Manage stress: Chronic stress increases cortisol, which can suppress immune function Meditation, time in nature, or simple breathing exercises can help During May, the Stratus variant accounted for 10 per cent of Covid-19 cases in England. Currently, the XFG and its sub-variant, XFG.3, are behind roughly 40 per cent of infections, based on UKHSA data. Between May 26 and June 8, 28.9 per cent of cases were classified as the XFG. 3 variant, whilst 11.4 per cent were linked to XFG. Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "It is normal for viruses to mutate and change over time. 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. 'Based on the available information so far, there is no evidence to suggest that the XFG and XFG.3 variants cause more severe disease than previous variants, or that the vaccines in current use will be less effective against them." Vaccines are still considered to be the best line of defence against Covid. Spring COVID-19 vaccinations have ended but the NHS will contact you later this year if you're eligible for the winter COVID-19 vaccine.