Severe ‘Razor Blade Throat’ Linked to New ‘Nimbus’ COVID Variant

A new COVID-19 variant is gaining attention, not just for its rapid spread, but for a distinctly painful symptom: a sore throat so intense it’s been nicknamed “razor blade throat.” Informally known as “Nimbus,” this variant appears to be making its presence felt with sharp, stabbing pain for some individuals.

What is ‘Razor Blade Throat’?

Patients affected by this severe symptom report a sharp, excruciating pain when swallowing, often feeling like shards of glass or razor blades are at the back of their throat. The nickname “Nimbus” itself is thought to draw a parallel to jagged storm clouds, reflecting the description of this particularly unpleasant pain. Doctors note the discomfort can be so severe it makes talking, eating, or drinking difficult. The intense pain is believed to be caused by the virus directly infecting cells in the throat, leading to significant irritation.

While sore throats have been a symptom of COVID-19 throughout the pandemic, this level of severity seems to be a more prominent feature associated with the Nimbus variant compared to some earlier strains.

Other Symptoms Associated with Nimbus

Beyond the hallmark severe sore throat, the Nimbus variant presents with symptoms common to other COVID-19 strains and typical respiratory illnesses. These can include:

Nasal congestion
Fatigue
Mild cough
Fever or chills
Muscle aches

Doctors in some regions, like the UK, have also observed a higher frequency of intestinal symptoms such as diarrhea and nausea with this variant compared to previous ones.

Understanding the Spread

The variant, officially designated NB.1.8.1 and a descendant of the Omicron lineage, was first detected in China and has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a variant “under monitoring.” It has shown a remarkable ability to spread quickly.

In the United States, for instance, the variant saw a rapid increase in prevalence, jumping significantly in a matter of weeks to account for an estimated 37% of new COVID-19 cases during the two-week period ending June 7. While more easily transmissible than some predecessors, experts currently suggest that Nimbus does not appear to cause significantly more severe illness overall compared to other recent variants. The focus on the sore throat symptom may partly be because, as the virus generally causes less severe hospitalization risk, other significant symptoms become more noticeable.

When to Seek Medical Help

It’s important to remember that a severe sore throat (pharyngitis) can be caused by many things besides the Nimbus variant or even COVID-19. Bacterial infections (like strep throat), allergies, and acid reflux can all cause significant throat pain.

If you experience a severe sore throat or other symptoms, it is crucial to consult a healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis and treatment plan. Seek medical attention promptly if you experience:

Symptoms that do not improve or worsen
Difficulty breathing or chest tightness
A high fever that persists for several days
Inability to consume enough fluids due to throat pain, potentially leading to dehydration

Older adults, pregnant individuals, and those with underlying health conditions should be particularly vigilant and seek care quickly if they become ill.

Finding Relief at Home

For temporary relief from throat pain, several home remedies and over-the-counter options may help while you await diagnosis or recover:

Pain Relievers: Over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can help reduce pain and inflammation.
Warm Saltwater Gargle: Mix about half a teaspoon of salt into a cup of warm water and gargle to soothe irritation.
Lozenges or Sprays: Throat lozenges or sprays containing menthol or benzocaine can provide temporary numbing.
Warm Liquids: Drink warm tea (with or without honey), broth, or other soothing liquids to keep the throat moist and ease discomfort. Honey itself can be very soothing for cough and throat pain.
Hydration: Stay well-hydrated, which is especially important if pain makes swallowing difficult.

Humidifier: Using a humidifier can help prevent throat dryness, which can worsen irritation.

Prevention Measures

Protecting yourself against the Nimbus variant involves standard public health measures. Staying up-to-date with COVID-19 vaccinations and booster shots remains key to reducing the risk of severe illness. Additionally, practices like wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces, maintaining physical distance from individuals who are sick, and washing hands thoroughly remain effective layers of protection.

In summary, the Nimbus variant, NB.1.8.1, is circulating rapidly, characterized notably by a very painful sore throat nicknamed “razor blade throat.” While it may be highly transmissible, it’s not currently linked to increased overall severity. Be aware of the symptoms, utilize home relief measures, and consult a healthcare professional for severe pain or concerning signs, keeping in mind that severe sore throats have various potential causes.