Egypt confirms no cases of new COVID variant Nimbus recorded

Egyptian health authorities have confirmed that the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1, known as Nimbus, has not been detected within the country. Hossam Hosni, head of the Health Ministry’s Scientific Committee to Combat Coronavirus, stated during a televised interview that all surveillance methods indicate the virus has not entered Egypt.

While the variant—currently under monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO)—is noted for its high transmissibility and ability to bypass existing immunity, Hosni assured the public that it generally causes non-fatal symptoms akin to a severe cold, including fever, fatigue, sore throat, red eyes, and gastrointestinal discomfort.

Despite its spread in countries like China and the United States, the WHO has assessed the public health risk posed by Nimbus as low. Hosni noted that standard treatment remains effective, though antivirals and antibiotics are reserved for high-risk individuals such as the elderly or those with chronic conditions. Egypt, which endured severe COVID-19 waves in 2020 and 2021, has since experienced a decline in critical cases, with officials emphasising continued vigilance. The WHO declared an end to the global pandemic emergency in May 2023, transitioning focus toward long-term management of COVID-19 as part of broader respiratory health care.