Health Chiefs Urge Caution as New 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus' COVID Variants Drive Autumn Rise Skip to main content

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The Grand Tapestry: How Aquitaine, Angers, and Brittany Forged the Angevin Empire

In the mid-1100s, if you were to travel from the mist-shrouded cliffs of Brittany down through the lush valley of the Loire and into the sun-drenched vineyards of Aquitaine, you wouldn’t just be crossing geographical borders. You would be traversing the heart of the most powerful empire in Western Europe. Modern history often focuses on the, "Kings of England", but for a century, the power centre of Europe wasn't London—it was the corridor connecting Angers, Normandy, and Bordeaux. To understand how these distinct regions—Aquitaine, Brittany, and the Angevins—became inextricably linked, we have to look at the master weavers of this political tapestry: The House of Plantagenet. 1. The Anchor: Angers and the Norman Connection The story begins in Angers, the capital of the County of Anjou. The Angevins were ambitious, ruthless, and tactically brilliant. For centuries, Anjou had been a rival to the Duchy of Normandy to its north. The relationship between Angers and N...
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Health Chiefs Urge Caution as New 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus' COVID Variants Drive Autumn Rise

United Kingdom – Health officials are advising the public on how to manage symptoms and prevent spread as two new COVID-19 variants are fueling a rise in cases across the UK this autumn.


The variants, officially designated NB.1.8.1 and XFG but nicknamed 'Nimbus' and 'Stratus' respectively, now account for almost 90 per cent of all recorded COVID cases in the United Kingdom.

According to data released last month by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the 'Stratus' variant (XFG) and its sub-lineages were responsible for 77 per cent of cases. The 'Nimbus' variant (NB.1.8.1) made up another 11 per cent, cementing their dominance as the country heads into the colder months.

While the number of infections is increasing, the UKHSA has moved to reassure the public. In a recent blog post, the agency stated, "Current data does not indicate that these variants lead to more severe illness than other variants in circulation".

The agency emphasised that viral mutations are normal and that vaccination remains the key defence. "The most important thing is for those eligible to get their vaccination when it is due", the statement concluded.


Symptoms to Watch For

As the virus has evolved, so have its most common symptoms. While the classic signs of a fever, continuous cough, and loss of taste or smell can still occur, recent strains are more commonly associated with cold-like symptoms.

However, experts have noted distinct symptoms linked to the new dominant variants. The 'Stratus' variant is often associated with a hoarse or raspy voice. Meanwhile, the 'Nimbus' variant has been linked to a severe sore throat, described by some as a, "razor blade sensation".

The full list of possible symptoms provided by the UKHSA now includes:

  • Fever or chills
  • Continuous cough
  • Sore throat
  • Blocked or runny nose
  • Headache and body aches
  • Tiredness or exhaustion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Loss of appetite, nausea, or diarrhoea

Official Advice and Rising Numbers

The latest figures confirm a clear upward trend in infections. The UKHSA reported a rise in COVID positivity from 7.6 per cent to 8.4 per cent in a week. Hospitalisations have also increased from 2.00 to 2.73 per 100,000 people. In the week ending September 17, England recorded 1,995 positive cases, a 14.3 per cent increase from the previous week.

In response, the UKHSA has urged anyone with symptoms of a respiratory infection and a high temperature to, "avoid contact with vulnerable people and stay at home if possible".

For those who have symptoms but cannot stay at home, the agency recommends the following measures:

  • Wear a well-fitting face covering or surgical mask.
  • Avoid crowded indoor spaces, such as public transport and large social gatherings.
  • Exercise outdoors in areas where close contact with others can be avoided.
  • Practice good hygiene by covering coughs and sneezes, washing hands frequently, and avoiding touching your face.

Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, stressed the importance of proactive measures. "Flu and COVID-19 levels are starting to slowly increase", he said. "While this is to be expected at this time of year, now is the time for people to come forward for their winter vaccines if they’re eligible... Vaccination offers the best protection".
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