Covid 19 resurges in the country: How THIS common symptom is key to the new variant

After a period of relative calm, COVID-19 is making a comeback, with a noticeable increase in cases globally, including in India. While most cases remain mild and patients are recovering well at home, health officials are urging caution, especially for those with pre-existing conditions, pregnant women, and the elderly. The virus continues to evolve, leading to new variants with varying transmission patterns and symptoms. One of the latest variants, NB.1.8.1, also known as "Nimbus," is distinguished by a particularly painful sore throat, often described as a "razor blade throat."

Understanding the Nimbus Variant

The Nimbus variant (NB.1.8.1), a descendant of Omicron, was first identified in January 2025. Since its emergence, it has rapidly spread to numerous countries, including the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, India, and parts of Asia. The World Health Organization (WHO) currently assesses the variant as mild, with no indication of causing severe illness in most cases.

Razor Blade Throat: Why Is It So Painful?

A defining characteristic of the Nimbus variant is the intense sore throat reported by many infected individuals. Patients describe the sensation as "swallowing razor blades" or "glass," a stark contrast to the milder throat discomfort associated with earlier COVID-19 strains.

Doctors explain that this severe pain arises from the virus causing significant inflammation and irritation of the throat tissues. The throat often feels dry and cracked, leading to exacerbated pain during eating and drinking.

Additional Symptoms to Watch For

While a painful sore throat is a key indicator of the Nimbus variant, it is typically accompanied by other common COVID-19 symptoms:

• Cough
• Fever
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Nasal congestion
• Headaches
• Nausea or vomiting
• Changes in taste or smell

These symptoms are consistent with those observed in other Omicron variants.

What to Do If You Experience a Sore Throat

It's important to remember that not all sore throats are indicative of COVID-19. However, if you experience a severe, burning sore throat accompanied by other symptoms, particularly if swallowing becomes difficult, take the following steps:

1. Get tested for COVID-19: Testing is crucial to confirm if you have contracted the virus.
2. Stay isolated: To prevent further transmission, stay home and minimize contact with others.
3. Drink plenty of fluids: Hydration can help soothe your throat, even if it's painful to swallow.
4. Use throat lozenges or warm salt water gargles: These remedies can provide temporary pain relief.
5. Seek medical help if symptoms worsen: If you experience difficulty breathing, persistent high fever, or severe pain, consult a healthcare professional immediately.

It's also crucial to remember that sore throats can be caused by bacterial infections, which require antibiotics. Since COVID-19 is a virus, antibiotics are ineffective. Avoid self-medicating and always consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Vaccines Remain Your Best Defense

Current COVID-19 vaccines, especially with updated boosters, continue to offer significant protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death caused by the Nimbus variant. Vaccinated individuals generally experience milder symptoms, even if they contract the virus.

Sources: World Health Organization, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention