The recent surge in COVID-19 cases in various parts of the world can be attributed to a new variant known as NB.1.8.1. or “Nimbus.” This variant has earned the nickname “razor blade throat COVID” due to its association with painful sore throats, a symptom that has been reported by medical professionals in the United Kingdom, India, and other regions. While the emergence of new variants often raises concerns, experts suggest that there is no significant cause for alarm regarding the Nimbus variant.
In addition to the characteristic sore throat, other common COVID-19 symptoms associated with any variant include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath, and loss of taste or smell. It is essential to recognize these symptoms and monitor any changes in health, especially in areas where the variant is prevalent.
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported on May 28 that the rise in cases linked to the Nimbus variant has been most prominent in the eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions. By mid-May, this new variant accounted for nearly 11% of sequenced samples globally. Furthermore, airport screenings in the United States have identified the Nimbus variant in travelers arriving from these affected regions, particularly in states like California, Washington, Virginia, and New York.
So far, the evidence suggests that individuals infected with the Nimbus variant are not likely to experience more severe illness compared to other COVID-19 variants. The WHO indicated that while some countries in the western Pacific have reported an uptick in COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations, there is currently no indication that the Nimbus variant causes a more severe form of the disease.
Current COVID-19 vaccines remain effective against the Nimbus variant, as confirmed by the WHO’s classification of Nimbus as a “variant under monitoring.” The public health risk associated with this variant is considered low on a global scale, which is reassuring for those who have been vaccinated. However, it’s worth noting that recent statements from Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. indicating that COVID-19 shots are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women have sparked debate among public health experts.
In summary, while the emergence of the Nimbus variant, or “razor blade throat” COVID, has led to increased case numbers in certain regions, the overall risk remains manageable. Staying informed and adhering to health guidelines is crucial in navigating this evolving situation.
