2. Profile of Key Subvariants

2.1. Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) Variant

The Nimbus variant has become a prominent strain, responsible for approximately 43% of cases in the United States. Its most distinguishing feature is a particularly severe sore throat.

• Defining Symptom: Patients commonly describe the sore throat associated with Nimbus as “jilet gibi,” which translates to “razor-like.”
• Additional Symptoms (UK NHS): Officials from the UK’s National Health Service report that other key indicators of the Nimbus variant include swollen lymph nodes in the neck, alongside classic COVID symptoms like fatigue, fever, and muscle pain.
• Symptoms Observed in Turkey: In addition to common respiratory symptoms (runny nose, headache, fatigue, sneezing, sore throat), Nimbus cases in Turkey have been observed to include digestive complaints such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea.

2.2. Stratus (XFG) Variant

The Stratus (XFG) variant is gaining prevalence in Europe and India. Its symptom profile is largely consistent with other Omicron lineages.

• Reported Symptoms:
  • Chills and fatigue
  • Shortness of breath
  • Sore throat
  • Headache and muscle aches
  • Nausea and vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Hoarseness (reported in some cases)
  • Loss of taste/smell (reported in some cases)