Overview

• UKHSA data show Stratus accounted for 82% of recorded cases in England between September 1 and 14, with reported case counts up 19% in the week to October 1 alongside rises in hospitalisations and deaths.
• Doctors report Stratus infections frequently present with hoarseness or a gravelly voice, alongside familiar cold‑like symptoms such as cough, runny nose, headache and fatigue.
• Nimbus (NB.1.8.1), designated by WHO as a Variant Under Monitoring, is still circulating and has been linked to an extremely painful sore throat and more gastrointestinal issues including nausea and diarrhoea.
• WHO and UK health authorities say there is no evidence these lineages cause more severe illness than other recent variants, and vaccines continue to protect against severe disease.
• Guidance emphasises early testing for vulnerable or immunocompromised people so antivirals can be considered, with seasonal booster offers focused on older adults, care‑home residents and those who are immunosuppressed.