Stratus and Nimbus: Omicron‑descended variants sparking throat‑focused symptoms and updated guidance for testing and vaccines
The latest COVID-19 strains, Stratus and its predecessor Nimbus, are descendants of the Omicron lineage that first emerged in 2021. Experts say these variants tend to target the upper respiratory tract more than the lungs, which helps explain why sore throats and throat‑level symptoms are prominent for many people.
A UK study from 2022 found that up to about 70% of those infected with Omicron reported sore throats, a higher share than with earlier variants. The pattern appears similar with Stratus and Nimbus as they spread across regions, including the Bay Area, where non‑respiratory symptoms like diarrhea, nausea and vomiting have also been reported more often with recent infections.
The official symptom list for COVID‑19 still includes fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, fatigue, muscle or body aches, headache, new loss of taste or smell, sore throat, congestion or runny nose, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhea. People may experience a mix of these or only one, and symptom severity can vary. If you notice any of these signs, testing is advised.
Treating a sore throat in the context of COVID‑19
For sore throats, systemic remedies — those that work through the bloodstream — are generally preferred over throat‑targeted products. Pain relief and fever reducers such as ibuprofen and acetaminophen are commonly recommended, with the caveat to check with a health provider if there are other medical conditions that could complicate ibuprofen use. If swallowing pills is difficult, liquid forms are an option, but dosing should match age and health status. Be mindful of combination cold remedies, which may already contain these medicines to avoid accidental double dosing.
Many readers find relief from simple, comforting remedies: warm options like chicken soup, broth, lemon tea, honey; or cold options like popsicles, ice cream, or ice chips. Gargling with salt water can help loosen mucus, and lozenges with menthol or a mild anesthetic may ease throat pain. Environmental tips include staying hydrated, getting plenty of rest, avoiding smoke, and using a humidifier to reduce throat dryness.
Seek medical attention if symptoms persist beyond a week, become unusually severe, or if drooling or inability to eat or drink develops.
Tracking COVID‑19 in the Bay Area
Positive test results aren’t tracked as closely by local and state officials as in earlier pandemic years. Wastewater surveillance has become a key proxy for gauging viral activity. Despite upticks in Bay Area wastewater levels, average concentrations remain lower than last year’s summer surge. Nonetheless, the monitored sites show a “high” category with an upward trend over the past three weeks.
If you want to check local wastewater levels, WastewaterSCAN provides county‑level data for the Bay Area including San Francisco, Alameda, San Mateo, Santa Clara, Contra Costa, Solano, Marin, Sonoma, and Napa.
Vaccine updates and protection against Stratus and Nimbus
Vaccines updated in August 2024 are considered effective against Stratus and Nimbus, both descendants of the JN.1 lineage that underpinned prior vaccine formulations. If you haven’t received a COVID‑19 shot this fall, getting one now is advised, especially for travelers. The protection is expected to last about a year, and staying up to date with vaccination helps navigate potential changes in rules or travel requirements later in the year.
Common questions about testing and isolation
Incubation times have shortened with newer variants, meaning people may test positive sooner after exposure. A typical window to consider is around three days from exposure, so testing as early as two days after exposure if symptoms begin is reasonable.
If a first test is negative but symptoms persist, retest the next day and again after that if needed. False negatives can occur with at‑home tests, especially early on, so don’t rely on a single negative result to rule out infection. If possible, consider a more sensitive PCR test for confirmation.
Also check the expiry dates on at‑home tests. Some tests have extended shelf lives, but if the control line does not appear, the test may be invalid and should not be trusted.
Isolation guidelines were updated in March 2024: individuals who test positive should end isolation when symptoms are improving and fever‑free without fever- reducers for at least 24 hours. If you’re prescribed Paxlovid, an antiviral, it remains available in California at no cost with a prescription.
Finding free or affordable testing
Free at‑home tests and PCR testing sites are less plentiful than at the height of the pandemic, but options remain. If you need to buy tests, pharmacies are a common source, with two‑test packs typically around $20. Many health plans allow reimbursement for a limited number of tests each month, so hold onto receipts.
If you prefer PCR testing, some sites still offer tests at no charge or covered costs when ordered by a health care provider. Check with your insurer or local health system for the most convenient option, including whether tests can be ordered online or via a member portal.
What this means for readers
– Stratus and Nimbus are likely to bring throat‑focused symptoms more often than earlier variants. If you develop a sore throat along with other COVID‑19 symptoms, consider testing and staying home to prevent spread.
– Maintain hydration, rest, and indoor air quality to ease symptoms.
– Update your vaccination status if you’re eligible, especially before travel.
– Use multiple tests if exposure or symptoms occur, and don’t rely on a single negative result.
– If you need testing options, contacts include pharmacies for at‑home tests and local clinics or health plans for PCR testing coverage.
Summary
Stratus and Nimbus reflect ongoing evolution of the virus from the Omicron lineage, with upper‑airway symptoms and a mix of gastrointestinal signs possible. Wastewater data shows rising activity in the Bay Area, while vaccines updated in 2024 continue to offer protection. Practical advice remains: test promptly after exposure or symptom onset, retest if negative but symptoms persist, isolate responsibly, and consider vaccination if not up to date. If you’re planning travel, getting vaccinated now can help reduce disruption later in the year.
Additional note
Readers should stay tuned for local health updates, as guidance can evolve with new data and emerging subvariants.