New COVID Variant ‘Nimbus’ Spreading Rapidly — Linked to Sharp Throat Pain
A new COVID-19 variant, nicknamed “Nimbus”, is spreading across the U.S., and one standout symptom is gaining attention: a sharp, painful sore throat, described by many as feeling like “swallowing razor blades.”
While sore throat has long been recognized as a COVID-19 symptom, this unusually intense version is making some doctors and patients take notice. Though it may seem unique to the Nimbus strain, experts emphasize this kind of discomfort is not exclusive to the new variant.
What We Know About the Nimbus Variant
The World Health Organization has identified the NB.1.8.1 subvariant, also known as Nimbus, as a descendent of the Omicron lineage of SARS-CoV-2. According to Dr. Scott Roberts of Yale School of Medicine, this variant now makes up roughly one-third of current COVID cases in the U.S.
“Nimbus has multiple spike protein mutations that likely make it more contagious than other circulating strains,” said Dr. Roberts in a statement to Healthline. “But despite the rise in infections, it’s not expected to cause a major surge in hospitalizations like previous waves.”
Dr. Kartik Cherabuddi, Chief Hospital Epidemiologist at Tampa General Hospital, confirmed that early data shows no major increase in disease severity or resistance to treatments. So far, no alarming rise in hospital admissions or deaths has been linked to the new variant.
‘Razor Blade Throat’ – Real or Rumor?
The term “razor blade throat” is being used by many infected with Nimbus to describe the sharp, severe sore throat they’re experiencing. However, this symptom is anecdotal, according to experts like Dr. Roberts, and has not been scientifically proven to be more common or severe with Nimbus compared to previous variants.
Still, if you develop a very sore throat, it’s important to test for COVID-19—and also consider the possibility of strep throat, which may require antibiotics to avoid serious complications.
Differentiating COVID-19 from Strep Throat
COVID-19 and strep throat share many overlapping symptoms, including:
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Sore throat
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Headache
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Fatigue
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Body aches
But strep throat often includes:
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Sudden high fever
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White patches on the throat or tonsils
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Swollen lymph nodes
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Difficulty swallowing
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Appetite loss
Strep throat is caused by bacteria (Group A Streptococcus), while COVID-19 is caused by a virus. Strep typically needs antibiotics, whereas COVID-19 treatment focuses on symptom relief and antiviral medication when necessary.
Untreated strep throat can lead to serious complications, such as:
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Peritonsillar abscesses
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Rheumatic fever (can affect the heart and joints)
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Kidney inflammation
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Toxic shock syndrome or meningitis (rare)
Staying Protected Against Nimbus
Though Nimbus may have some unique features, protection strategies remain the same, say health officials:
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Wash hands frequently
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Wear masks in high-risk settings
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Ensure proper ventilation indoors
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Get vaccinated and stay up to date on boosters
The CDC continues to recommend vaccination, especially for older adults, high-risk individuals, and those who haven’t been previously immunized. As vaccine immunity fades over time, updated doses are essential to stay protected.
Be aware: upcoming policy changes may impact vaccine access for healthy adults, children, and pregnant individuals—so it’s wise to stay informed and act early.
When to Call Your Doctor
Dr. Cherabuddi highlights several warning signs that should prompt medical attention:
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Severe or persistent throat pain
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Pain lasting more than one week
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Unexplained weight loss
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Difficulty swallowing or a sensation of food getting stuck
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Shortness of breath that is new or worsening
“If any of these symptoms show up, don’t wait. Get it checked out,” he advised.
The Bottom Line
Nimbus is gaining ground in the U.S. and may be more contagious, but not necessarily more dangerous. While reports of “razor blade throat” are circulating, there’s no concrete evidence that this is unique to the variant. Still, intense sore throat symptoms shouldn’t be ignored—especially with strep throat also a possibility.
Staying up to date with vaccines, practicing good hygiene, and testing early are still your best lines of defense.
