As the new school year approaches, South Florida is witnessing a significant rise in COVID-19 cases. According to state health data, positive cases in Miami-Dade and Broward counties have surged by over 50% from June to July. This alarming trend has families and schools on high alert, as reported by Local 10.
"It's spreading like any other cold or flu, and patients are showing up in the peak of summer with cold and flu symptoms, which, again, are out of the typical cold and flu season. We are seeing many more people testing positive for COVID," stated Dr. Adam Rubin, the medical director at Memorial Regional Hospital, to the media outlet.
New Variants: A Growing Concern
The uptick in cases coincides with the emergence of new virus variants in the United States and other parts of the world, including Latin America and the Caribbean. Detected initially in January 2025 in Southeast Asia, the XFG variant, known as "Stratus," has quickly gained prevalence and is now one of the top three common variants in the country, as per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
While the World Health Organization (WHO) assesses the global risk of this variant as low, its spread has nevertheless triggered alerts in several health systems. "Stratus" is marked by mutations that may partially evade immune protection. Although it hasn't been proven to be more contagious or severe than other variants, its ability to bypass immunity poses challenges for containment.
Impact of the "Nimbus" Subvariant
In June, U.S. health authorities issued a warning about the rapid spread of the subvariant NB.1.8.1, commonly referred to as "Nimbus." Originating from omicron, it is concerning due to its high transmissibility and a particularly painful symptom: an intense sore throat described as akin to swallowing razor blades, earning it the nickname "blade throat."
This subvariant was first identified in the U.S. in late March during routine airport screenings and has since been detected in over a dozen states, now accounting for more than a third of the country's recent cases.
Back-to-School Challenges
The rise in diagnoses during the summer months coincides with families preparing for the school year. For school administrators and parents, the challenge will be to minimize disruptions from absences and quarantines, particularly if symptoms like the severe sore throat linked to "Nimbus" become more prevalent among students and staff.
Recommendations continue to focus on common-sense measures against respiratory illnesses. Experts remind the public:
- Get tested if you feel unwell.
- Try to avoid close contact with sick individuals.
Vaccination offers enhanced protection against contracting COVID-19 and experiencing severe symptoms. These guidelines, along with vigilant monitoring of symptoms and early consultation with healthcare professionals, can aid in reducing transmission and safeguarding families as the school year begins.
FAQs on COVID-19 Variants and School Concerns
What is the "Stratus" variant?
The "Stratus" variant, also known as XFG, was first detected in Southeast Asia in January 2025. It is now one of the three most common variants in the United States, characterized by mutations that may partially evade immune protection.
Why is the "Nimbus" subvariant a concern?
The "Nimbus" subvariant, derived from omicron, is concerning due to its high transmissibility and a severe sore throat symptom, which has been compared to swallowing razor blades.
How can families prepare for the school year amidst rising COVID cases?
Families can prepare by following health guidelines such as getting tested when feeling unwell, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and ensuring vaccinations are up to date to offer protection against COVID-19.