Concern is spreading across Europe due to the emergence of a new, highly contagious strain of COVID-19, which, according to warnings from scientists, could cause a significant increase in the number of infections during the summer months.
Named nimbus, the new strain originates from the already known and highly contagious omicron. An increase in cases has already been recorded in China, Singapore, and Hong Kong, and according to data from the United Kingdom (UK) Health Security Agency, 13 cases of infection with this strain, officially designated as NB.1.8.1, have been detected in England.
According to media reports, as many as 25 British samples of this strain have been reported to the international COVID-19 disease database since the end of March, although it is believed that the actual number of infected people is significantly higher given that the level of testing has dropped considerably compared to the peak of the pandemic.
Highest level
The latest data reveal that the percentage of positive COVID tests has reached its highest level this year – even 97% higher than in March.
In just the week leading up to June 1, 6.1% of those tested were positive, which represents the highest number of infections in 2025.
Scientists warn that the number of cases could significantly increase in the coming weeks.
