A new COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, informally called “Nimbus,” has triggered a spike in cases across Asia and is now appearing in other parts of the world. Health officials are raising concerns over the variant’s signature symptom — an intensely painful sore throat, described as “razor blade throat.”
According to Salon, the variant now accounts for more than 10% of all COVID-19 cases in Asia, and has already been detected in the United States, Europe, and Canada. Medical experts say this version of the virus shows high immune evasion, making it capable of spreading quickly even among previously infected or vaccinated individuals.
A pre-print study (not yet peer-reviewed) suggests NB.1.8.1 could become the dominant strain in the coming months. “It’s a strong candidate for the summer surge,” said Dr. Rajendram Rajnarayanan, Assistant Dean of Research at the New York Institute of Technology, in an interview with Salon.
Painful Symptoms Raise Public Alarm, But Global Risk Remains Low
The defining symptom of the Nimbus variant is a severe sore throat that patients compare to swallowing razor blades. Unlike earlier strains, this one causes intense throat pain even in mild cases, creating new concern among healthcare workers.
Other symptoms resemble traditional flu-like signs, including:
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Nasal congestion
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Fatigue
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Mild cough
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Fever
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Muscle aches
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Occasionally: diarrhea and nausea
Despite the surge, the World Health Organization (WHO) says the global risk remains low. Current vaccines are still considered effective in preventing severe illness, even with this mutation.
However, experts warn against complacency. “I know that everybody wants to forget about this disease,” said Dr. Janko Nikolich, Chair of Immunobiology at the University of Arizona College of Medicine, in comments to ABC Action News. “But it’s not going to allow us to.”
Dr. Nikolich emphasized the need for continued public awareness and personal precautions, particularly in crowded indoor settings and during summer travel season.
Vaccine Recommendations Pulled Back Amid Growing Health Debate
As the Nimbus variant spreads, the Trump administration, led by Health and Human Services Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., is facing backlash for rolling back COVID-19 vaccine guidance — particularly for pregnant women and children.
Medical professionals are urging the public not to ignore the science. Dr. Steven J. Fleischman, President of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, pushed back against the policy shift in a statement to NPR.
“The science has not changed,” Dr. Fleischman said. “COVID infection during pregnancy can be catastrophic and lead to major disability. Newborn babies are better protected if their mothers are vaccinated.”
Despite policy changes at the federal level, many hospitals and clinics continue to recommend vaccinations for high-risk groups, including expectant mothers, young children, and the elderly.
Read: Trump’s South Asia Pick Paul Kapur to Focus on Pakistan Ties
Conclusion: Stay Alert, Not Afraid
As NB.1.8.1 — or “Nimbus” — gains traction globally, health experts stress the importance of awareness and prevention. While this variant causes more painful symptoms, it does not appear to cause more severe disease or hospitalizations than previous strains, thanks in part to existing vaccines.
Still, the sharp throat pain and high transmissibility make it a public health concern. With summer approaching and international travel increasing, doctors recommend keeping masks handy, staying up to date on vaccinations, and not brushing off flu-like symptoms — especially if they come with a razor-sharp sore throat.
“COVID isn’t done with us yet,” warned Dr. Rajnarayanan. “The virus keeps changing — and so must our response.”
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