Red Alert: UK Hospitals Reinstate Face Masks Amid Surge in New COVID-19 Variants Nimbus and Stratus
Hospitals across the UK are reintroducing face mask requirements following a significant rise in COVID-19 cases linked to two new variants — Nimbus and Stratus. While these strains do not appear to cause more severe illness, experts warn that genetic mutations are making them more infectious and potentially capable of evading immunity from previous infections and vaccinations.
The Shrewsbury and Telford Hospital NHS Trust, which manages the Royal Shrewsbury Hospital and Telford’s Princess Royal Hospital, has confirmed that face masks are once again mandatory in key clinical areas following a “recent increase” in COVID-19 admissions. The decision, made on the advice of NHS England, aims to protect patients, staff, and visitors as infection rates continue to rise.
From October 8, masks will be required in the following high-risk departments:
- Emergency Department
- Acute Medical Unit and Assessment areas
- Surgical and Children’s Assessment Units
- Oncology, Haematology and Chemotherapy wards
- Respiratory and Nephrology wards
- Neonatal and Paediatric units
Visitors are urged not to attend hospital if they are unwell with flu-like symptoms, sore throats, diarrhoea, vomiting, or chest infections. Patients who are ill but have upcoming appointments are asked to contact hospital departments for advice.
“Face masks will be provided at designated areas,” the Trust stated. “Anyone who feels they are exempt should speak to a member of staff.”
New Variants Fuel Early Autumn Surge
According to Professor Lawrence Young, virologist at the University of Warwick, the rise in infections and hospitalisations this early in the season is “concerning.” He attributed the spike to a combination of children returning to school, colder weather driving people indoors, and waning immunity across the population.
Although Nimbus and Stratus do not appear to cause more severe disease, their genetic differences may enhance their ability to spread and bypass immune protection. Reported symptoms include headaches, coughs, and runny noses, with some patients describing a hoarse voice or severe sore throat that feels like “razor blades.”
One woman who recently contracted the variant described unexpected jaw and tooth pain among her symptoms — highlighting how the virus continues to present in evolving ways.
Health Experts Urge Caution and Mask Use
While self-isolation is no longer mandatory, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) advises those who test positive for COVID-19 to stay at home and limit contact with others wherever possible.
Professor Young added:
“If isolation isn’t possible, people should minimise mixing in confined spaces and wear a face mask to help reduce the spread of infection.”
Health officials are closely monitoring the spread of the Nimbus and Stratus variants. The NHS and UKHSA continue to stress the importance of infection prevention and control, good ventilation, and staying up to date with COVID-19 vaccinations — particularly for vulnerable groups.
