The Ministry of Health has confirmed that a new dangerous strain of COVID-19 Nimbus is in Ukraine
14 August 12:28
In Ukraine, two new sub-variants of the Omicron strain, Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) and Stratus (XFG), which are currently dominating the world, have been laboratory detected. This was reported by "Komersant Ukrainian" with reference to the Ministry of Health.
The first case of Nimbus was detected in the Vinnytsia region during sequencing, a genetic analysis that allows to identify virus mutations. In total, 38 cases of Stratus and one of Nimbus have been confirmed.
How the coronavirus is changing
SARS-CoV-2 mutations are a natural process, similar to changes in the influenza virus. Over time, new variants and sub-variants emerge, so global recommendations for prevention, vaccination and vaccine composition are updated every season.
According to the WHO classification, both new sub-variants are classified as those that require monitoring. Their mutations in the spike protein allow the virus to spread faster and cause a more severe course in people with weakened immune systems. Vaccinated people can also get sick, but vaccination significantly reduces the risk of complications.
What is known about “Nimbus”
The Nimbus sub-variant of the coronavirus (NB.1.8.1) was first detected worldwide in January 2025, and in the United States, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention(CDC) registered NB.1.8.1 in early spring 2025.
According to monitoring data, the subvariant does not cause a more severe course of the disease than previous variants.
Usually, its characteristic symptom is an acute sore throat. The other symptoms of the sub-variant are the same as those of other COVID-19 variants: runny nose, fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of smell or taste.
What we know about Stratus
The Stratus (XFG) sub-variant of the coronavirus was detected in the world at the end of January 2025.
According to monitoring data, the sub-variant does not cause a more severe course of the disease than previous variants.
Its characteristic symptom is a hoarse voice and hoarseness. The rest of the symptoms of the sub-variant are the same as for other COVID-19 variants: runny nose, fever, cough, headache, fatigue, loss of smell or taste.
Vaccination and revaccination
In Ukraine, an omicron-specific vaccine adapted to the current SARS-CoV-2 variants is used.
Every season, vaccination is recommended for risk groups, in particular
- people with weakened immune systems and chronic diseases
- pregnant women
- people over 60;
- healthcare workers, teachers, military and other professional risk groups.
Revaccination is recommended every 6-12 months. The need is determined by a doctor in accordance with the recommendations of the Ministry of Health.
People who have completed the basic course and received the booster can continue to be vaccinated free of charge after making an appointment with their family doctor.
We remind you that over the past month, the number of hospitalizations due to coronavirus in Kyiv has increased significantly – from 15 to 68 people. Among those hospitalized are 24 children. All patients have a severe course of the disease and need medical supervision, treatment and oxygen support.
