New 'Razor Throat' COVID Variant: What You Need to Know About Nimbus and Rising Cases
Is a New COVID Variant Causing 'Razor Throat' Symptoms? Understanding Nimbus (NB.1.8.1)
A new COVID-19 variant, dubbed “razor blade throat” COVID due to the intensely painful sore throat it causes, is gaining attention as cases rise in certain regions globally. Officially known as NB.1.8.1, but increasingly referred to as “Nimbus,” this variant is raising concerns among health officials and prompting renewed focus on preventative measures. Let's delve into what we know about Nimbus, its symptoms, and what it means for public health.
What is the Nimbus Variant (NB.1.8.1)?
Nimbus is a subvariant of Omicron, the dominant strain of COVID-19 worldwide. It's characterized by a unique set of mutations that scientists believe contribute to its increased transmissibility and, notably, the severity of sore throat symptoms. While still relatively new, Nimbus is showing signs of spreading more rapidly in some areas, contributing to the recent uptick in COVID-19 cases. Genomic sequencing is ongoing to further understand its evolution and potential impact.
The 'Razor Blade Throat' Symptom: What's the Pain Like?
The nickname