Epidemiologist Calls for Vigilance, Not Panic, Over COVID Nimbus Variant

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A new variant of the SARS-CoV-2 virus, known as Nimbus or NB.1.8.1, has begun to draw attention after being detected with increasing transmission rates in several Asian countries. The World Health Organization (WHO) designated it as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) on May 23, 2025.

Citra Indriani, an epidemiologist from the Faculty of Medicine, Public Health, and Nursing (FK-KMK) at Gadjah Mada University (UGM), said that such virus mutations are a normal occurrence.

“RNA viruses like SARS-CoV-2 mutate continuously, much like the influenza virus,” Citra said in a written statement on Thursday, July 3, 2025.

She explained that while the Nimbus variant is currently dominant in some areas, it is not the only strain in circulation.

“Global data shows that the trend of the NB.1.8.1 variant increased in April but has now begun to decline,” she said, adding that the variant is not yet considered alarming.

According to Citra, WHO classifies variants into three main categories: Variants of Concern (VOC), Variants of Interest (VOI), and Variants Under Monitoring (VUM). The Nimbus variant falls under the VUM category, meaning it is being tracked due to rising cases in certain regions, but there is no solid evidence that it poses significant harm.

She noted that symptoms of the Nimbus variant resemble those of common upper respiratory infections, such as coughing and colds, with one frequently reported symptom being sharp throat pain.

Citra also said there is no indication that the Nimbus variant is more severe or more transmissible than previous variants such as Omicron or Delta. “The transmission methods remain the same—via droplets, close contact, and through breathing,” she said.

As with earlier strains, the most vulnerable groups include the elderly, people with underlying health conditions, and those who have not completed their vaccination. Fatalities are more likely among individuals with preexisting health issues and weakened immunity.

“Vaccination may not offer complete protection, but it significantly reduces the risk of severe illness,” she said.

Citra emphasized the importance of active surveillance in health facilities, especially considering the high level of cross-border mobility that could allow the Nimbus variant to enter Indonesia.

She urged the public to stay at home or work remotely if experiencing mild flu symptoms and to return to basic health protocols.

“Practicing proper cough etiquette, washing hands regularly, maintaining physical distance, and wearing a mask when sick are essential preventive measures,” Citra said.

While the emergence of new variants is part of the natural evolution of viruses, Citra encouraged the public to stay alert without panic and continue adopting healthy habits.

“The involvement of both the public and health institutions plays a vital role in limiting the spread and maintaining public health stability,” she said.

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