A new COVID-19 variant, informally called "Nimbus" (NB.1.8.1), is rapidly spreading and causing concern among health officials. This variant, accounting for a significant portion of recent cases, is associated with a distinctive and painful symptom: a severe sore throat described as a "razor blade sensation."
What is 'Razor Blade Throat'?
The "razor blade throat" is characterized by an intense, sharp pain when swallowing. Patients have described the feeling as akin to swallowing razor blades or shards of glass. This symptom appears to be a prominent feature of the Nimbus variant, distinguishing it from some previous strains.
Symptoms and Transmission
Dr. Marc Siegel, Fox News' senior medical analyst, noted that many COVID subvariants have unique characteristics. While the Nimbus variant seems to be more easily transmissible, current data suggests it doesn't cause more severe illness compared to other circulating variants.
- Severe sore throat: The hallmark symptom, causing extreme pain during swallowing.
- Other common symptoms may include:
- Persistent fatigue
- Mild cough
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nasal congestion
Expert Advice
Dr. Kenneth Perry, an ER physician, emphasized that the dominant symptoms of COVID strains have evolved. He explained that the sore throat results from the direct infection of throat cells, leading to irritation. Health professionals advise rest, fluids, and over-the-counter pain relievers to manage the symptoms.
Prevention and Action
The NHS recommends staying home if you suspect you have COVID-19. Current vaccines remain effective against the Nimbus variant, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). Monitoring the spread and characteristics of this new variant is crucial for informed public health responses.
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