Return of the variants

The Covid-19 pandemic, which engulfed the world between 2019 and 2021, remains a stark reminder of global collective vulnerability to invisible enemies. When the virus first emerged, it spread with alarming rapidity, forcing nations into unprecedented lockdowns and turning lives upside down. Globally, it claimed the lives of over 70 million people-an unfathomable toll that underscored the devastating impact of the pandemic. Beyond lives lost, economies nosedived, millions lost their jobs, businesses shuttered, and the financial losses soared into billions of dollars. The world was caught in a nightmare, from which it only began to emerge in 2021, with hopes of recovery and resilience. However, even as Covid-19 faded from the headlines and public discourse, it did not vanish. The virus, like all pathogens, continues to evolve. Two variants have garnered particular attention of the World Health Organisation (WHO): NB.1.8.1, unofficially dubbed “Nimbus,” and XFG, informally called “Stratus.” Since being identified in January 2025, Nimbus has rapidly gained ground, spreading across Asia and into other regions with alarming speed.The spread of new variants like Nimbus and Stratus continues to raise concern worldwide. These variants exhibit certain genetic mutations that may influence how easily the virus spreads and the symptoms it causes. By late April 2025, Nimbus accounted for about 11% of sequenced cases-a dramatic increase from merely 2.5% a month earlier. While current evidence suggests that Nimbus is not associated with more severe illness compared to other circulating variants, its rapid spread underscores the importance of vigilant monitoring. The variant XFG, Stratus, also remains under close watch. Additionally, other variants like JN.1, with distinct genetic features, are being tracked. The shifting landscape of Covid-19’s evolution highlights how dynamic and unpredictable this virus can be; some variants diminish in circulation, while others emerge with concerning characteristics. In India, where the pandemic’s second wave was devastating, the current situation appears somewhat under control but still cautious. As of June 16, the country reported a total of 7,264 active Covid-19 cases. The death toll since January 2025 has reached 108, with 11 new deaths recorded up until early morning. Regionally, in the northeastern states, Assam has the highest number of cases reported—22 followed by Manipur with seven, Tripura with two, and Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, and Mizoram with one each. Sikkim has reported four new cases, whereas Meghalaya has recorded no new infections. Common symptoms now include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, congestion, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms, however, may vary depending on vaccination status and the specific variant involved. The incubation period typically ranges from two to fourteen days, and symptoms can last for up to two weeks. In response to this evolving threat, authorities have issued renewed directives urging vigilance. The central government advocates maintaining Covid-19 protocols: wearing masks, practicing social distancing, and regular hand hygiene to mitigate transmission. Testing remains crucial , especially if symptoms appear, to enable timely treatment and prevent severity. In essence, Covid-19 is far from over. While effective vaccines and improved treatment options have offered hope, the virus’s ongoing mutations compel people to stay alert. Public cooperation, and adherence to Covid protocols remain as the best defenses against this invisible enemy that continues to evolve in the shadows.