DHAKA: A New COVID-19 Variant on the Rise!

Introducing NB.1.8.1, dubbed "Nimbus"—the latest COVID-19 variant that's quietly making its way across the globe. Since its first detection in January 2025, this variant has infiltrated over 20 countries, leading Bangladesh's Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) to sound the alarm.

Why Nimbus is Different: The Silent Spread of a New Threat

Unlike the chaotic early days of the pandemic, we aren’t witnessing overwhelmed hospitals or packed testing sites. Experts are raising the red flag, noting that this new strain might be even trickier to identify due to its mild or absent symptoms and low public awareness.

A sub-lineage of Omicron, Nimbus was initially discovered in international travelers from East Asia and Europe and has since stealthily spread to various regions, including the US, UK, China, Australia, and now, Bangladesh.

Is Nimbus More Contagious? The Evidence Says Yes!

In places like China and Hong Kong, NB.1.8.1 has quickly become the dominant strain. Reports suggest that this variant exhibits increased transmissibility, making it easier to spread compared to earlier versions.

What’s alarming is the variant's subtlety. Most individuals testing positive for Nimbus don’t show typical signs such as fever or cough. Instead, symptoms are so mild that many might mistake them for a common cold, leading to unnoticed infections and a lack of public vigilance.

Time to Take Action: What You Can Do

The DGHS has confirmed Nimbus's presence in Bangladesh and is urging the public to exercise caution, especially in high-traffic areas like ports, hospitals, and busy streets.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has categorized Nimbus as a "variant under monitoring," highlighting its rapid spread, despite no significant increase in severity compared to previous variants.

Good News Amid the Concerns!

The silver lining? So far, there’s no evidence indicating that Nimbus is causing more hospitalizations or fatalities than earlier variants. However, the potential for silent transmission could pave the way for a gradual uptick in cases if not addressed promptly.

Stay Safe: Basic Precautions Are Key!

Health officials stress the importance of returning to basic safety practices—wearing masks in crowded settings, frequent handwashing, staying home when feeling unwell, and being vigilant about reporting any unusual symptoms.

Healthcare providers are also being reminded to get ready with isolation facilities and personal protective equipment, as well as to monitor travelers at all entry points.

The Takeaway: Don’t Underestimate Nimbus!

As we move into the fifth year of the pandemic, it’s easy to forget that the virus is still lurking around—just in a new guise. Nimbus is a reminder that we must remain alert and cautious. As one health official aptly put it, "This variant isn’t loud. That’s exactly why we need to listen!"