Covid-19 cases have been rising in recent weeks across the United States, with much of the attention focused on a new variant called “Stratus.” However, health officials in California’s Central Valley say a different Omicron subvariant known as “Nimbus” is responsible for the local uptick.
Dr. Rais Vohra, Interim Health Director at the Fresno County Department of Public Health (FCDPH), said, “Covid is definitely a wintertime infection, definitely during the fall and winter months we see a lot of issues, just like we do with the flu and RSV and other wintertime viruses. But covid also seems to have a summer peak — maybe not as dramatic as the winter peak — but that may be what’s going on.”
Vohra noted that seasonal factors and social behaviors could be contributing to increased transmission. “I’m already taking a deep breath and saying to myself that I’m not going to be surprised if in a week or two I’m starting to hear about school kids and their parents and grandparents catching some of these germs just because we know that’s what happens,” he said. “Kids come together, they’re indoors during many hours of the day and that’s where viruses can really take advantage and spread.”
He explained that high temperatures are also likely pushing more people indoors where close contact raises risk for infection. In addition, heat combined with social interactions might reduce immunity.
Despite reduced requirements for testing at various government levels, Fresno County continues monitoring Covid-19 through wastewater analysis to track which variants are present locally. FCDPH has observed an increase in cases tied to Nimbus—a highly contagious strain of Covid-19 for which vaccinations and boosters remain effective.
Vohra emphasized that while Nimbus spreads easily, it does not cause severe symptoms in all individuals; those most vulnerable include older adults and people with weakened immune systems.
Those who contract Covid-19 should continue isolation measures when symptomatic. Vohra advised residents: “The best thing you can do is stay home if you are symptomatic, don’t cough and sneeze all over your loved ones, wear a mask if you do have to be out in public,” adding that free COVID tests are available from local health authorities.
For businesses experiencing staffing challenges due to illness-related absences, Vohra recommended patience: “Be flexible,” he said. “Be creative, and remember the layers of protection.”
He cited masking, immunization, distancing measures and outdoor activities as strategies to keep community members both safe and able to function.
This fall FCDPH will organize flu shot clinics throughout Fresno County; Vohra encouraged residents to get vaccinated against both Covid-19 and seasonal illnesses.
