US Grapples With “Nimbus” COVID Strain As Summer Surges Continue; Is Razor Blade Throat” A Distinct Symptom?

CDC says that the new NB.1.8.1 variant is spreading quickly in 26 states. Biannual COVID spikes and loss of immunity are two important factors.

July 28, 2025 – A new and quickly spreading COVID-19 variety, officially called NB.1.8.1 and colloquially called the “Nimbus strain,” is causing a big rise in cases across the United States this summer. People who have this variety often say they have a “razor blade throat” or that it feels like “swallowing glass.” This is a really bad sore throat.

CBS News says that based on data from the CDC’s wastewater and surveillance systems, at least 26 states in the US, including Virginia, North Carolina, and Texas, are currently seeing a rise in cases linked to this new variety. This new wave means that the virus’s seasonal rhythm is changing; in the past, COVID-19 spikes mostly happened in the winter. But the virus is now showing a biannual pattern, with surges happening twice a year. The CDC says this is because population immunity is fading and new variations like Nimbus are always developing.

The Nimbus strain, which was initially found in March 2025, spreads quickly and has quickly become the most common variety in most states where cases are rising. The “razor blade throat” is the most painful symptom of NB.1.8.1, however current information suggests that it does not produce more severe disease or lead to more hospitalizations than prior variations. Other reported symptoms include a minor cough, fever, muscle aches, and stuffy nose, which are similar to many of the general symptoms described in previous Omicron sub-variants. Some patients have also said that they suddenly lost their appetite and had muscle soreness in strange places, such behind their ears or in their jaw.

How to Keep Yourself Safe During the New Strain:

Dr. Scott Roberts, an assistant professor of Yale School of Medicine, is one of many healthcare experts who say that existing preventive strategies still work against the Nimbus variant. People should do the following to keep safe:

obtain Boosted: If you haven’t had a COVID-19 vaccination dosage in more than six months, you might want to obtain a booster. While new autumn boosters are likely to come out, it’s not a good idea to wait, especially for elderly people or those with weak immune systems who need extra protection. Current immunizations are still thought to work against Nimbus-related severe disease.

Wear Masks in Crowded Places: If you’re in a crowded indoor space or a place with bad air circulation, wear a high-filtration mask like a N95 or KN95 respirator.

Test and Isolate: Keep a stock of COVID-19 tests at home. Take a test if you have symptoms or think you may have been exposed to the virus. If the result is positive, stay away from other people for five days. After the time of isolation is up, wear a mask for five more days to stop the spread.

Improve Airflow: Open windows when you can or use air purifiers to help the air move around better inside.

Wash your hands often with soap and water, and use hand sanitizer often as well. Don’t touch your face, especially after being in public places.

Keep an eye out for symptoms: Keep an eye out for common COVID-19 symptoms include fever, tiredness, and especially a sore throat. If you see signs, act quickly.

How to treat and manage symptoms:

People with the Nimbus strain frequently have a very painful sore throat, and doctors usually offer general supportive treatment and over-the-counter medicines:

discomfort Relievers: Over-the-counter drugs like acetaminophen (Tylenol) and ibuprofen (Motrin) can assist with throat discomfort and swelling. If the pain is very bad, it could be simpler to consume liquid forms.

Lozenges, throat sprays (with numbing ingredients like benzocaine or menthol), warm beverages (such tea with honey or broths), and even cold things (ice chips, popsicles) can help with throat pain.

Hydration: It’s really important to stay well-hydrated.

Antivirals: If a high-risk person tests positive, a doctor may give them oral antiviral drugs like Paxlovid to make the disease less severe and lower the chance of hospitalization.

If your symptoms get worse, your throat discomfort is especially strong or lasts a long time, or you are worried about other problems like strep throat, which needs separate treatment, you should see a doctor. The Nimbus variety is still spreading, which shows how important it is for people to stay alert and follow health rules to lessen its effects.