Has your child has been extra tired lately, complaining about a sore throat that “really hurts,” or sounding hoarse? There’s a new reason to pay attention.
Two new COVID-19 variants (Stratus and Nimbus) are making the rounds this summer, and they’re causing some pretty uncomfortable symptoms in kids and adults alike
So… What Are Stratus and Nimbus?
These two new variants of COVID-19 are spreading quickly this season and are showing up in urgent care clinics across the country.
Here’s what’s different this time:
- Stratus is causing a hoarse or raspy voice, along with tiredness, fever, and a dry cough.
- Nimbus brings a sore throat that kids are describing as “sharp” or “scratchy”—some even say it feels like swallowing sandpaper!
While these symptoms sound intense, most children recover just fine with rest, hydration, and a little TLC. However, it’s important to get tested so you can confirm it’s COVID instead of strep throat, while also social distancing to keep others healthy.
Symptoms to Keep an Eye On
Every child reacts differently, but here are the most common symptoms we’re seeing with these variants:
- Very sore throat or hoarseness
- Tiredness or “just not feeling great”
- Runny nose or congestion
- Low-grade fever
- Dry or mild cough
If your child has multiple symptoms, or a sore throat that comes fast and strong, it’s a good idea to bring them in for a test so we can see what’s going on.
Visit a KidsStreet Urgent Care near you for COVID, flu, and strep tests to ensure your little ones are getting the treatment they need.
How Can You Protect Your Family?
You’ve probably got most of this down by now, but here’s a quick refresher on what helps:
- Wash hands often (especially before meals and after school)
- Cover coughs and sneezes
- Stay home when someone isn’t feeling well
- Get updated COVID-19 boosters for eligible family members
- Check symptoms early and don’t wait if your little one is really uncomfortable
Being proactive can help prevent the spread—not just of COVID, but other summer bugs too!
When to Visit KidsStreet Urgent Care
We know it’s hard to tell the difference between a summer cold, allergies, strep throat, and now these new COVID variants. That’s where we come in!
Bring your child to KidsStreet Urgent Care if they:
- Have a sore throat that’s getting worse
- Develop a fever or chills
- Seem extra tired or cranky
- Need a COVID-19 test or diagnosis
- Just don’t seem like themselves
We offer quick, kid-friendly COVID testing, along with treatment for fevers, colds, rashes, and just about everything in between. Our goal is to help your child feel better—and help you breathe more easily.
Sore throat? Fever? Just not sure what’s going on?
KidsStreet Urgent Care is here for your family 7 days a week, with extended hours.
- Walk in or register online to wait from home
- Visit our clinic near you—no appointment needed
- Enjoy a kid-friendly waiting room with water and coffee
We accept most insurance plans!
Register online or walk into your nearest clinic. We’re here to help your kiddo feel better – FAST!