The emergence of the new Nimbus COVID-19 variant, scientifically known as NB.1.8.1, has sparked concerns due to its painful symptom dubbed “razor blade throat.” This variant, a descendant of the Omicron strain, has been making its presence felt with symptoms similar to previous COVID-19 strains but with a notably severe sore throat.
Dr. Chin-Hong, an expert in infectious diseases, confirmed that while the symptoms of NB.1.8.1 align with those of earlier variants, the intense sore throat stands out. Descriptions from patients liken the sensation to “being burned by acid” or “having a throat coated in broken glass.”
Understanding the Symptoms and Causes
The Nimbus variant’s tendency to cause such sore throats is attributed to its focus on the upper respiratory tract, unlike earlier variants which affected the lungs more severely. A study from the United Kingdom in 2022 highlighted that up to 70% of Omicron-infected patients reported sore throats, a significant increase compared to previous strains.
In addition to respiratory symptoms, non-respiratory symptoms such as diarrhea, nausea, and vomiting are also being reported more frequently, possibly leading to initial misdiagnosis. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) lists the full range of possible COVID-19 symptoms, which include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Headache
- New loss of taste or smell
- Sore throat
- Congestion or runny nose
- Nausea or vomiting
- Diarrhea
If you experience these symptoms, it is advisable to take a COVID-19 test promptly.
Managing the ‘Razor Blade Throat’
For those suffering from this severe sore throat, systemic treatments are recommended over topical remedies. Dr. Chin-Hong suggests using ibuprofen or acetaminophen, with ibuprofen being preferable unless contraindicated by other health conditions. Liquid forms of these medications can be used if swallowing pills is difficult.
Topical remedies like warm soups, lemon tea, honey, or cold treatments such as popsicles can provide immediate relief, though their effects may be short-lived. Gargling salt water or using lozenges with menthol or benzocaine may also help. Environmental factors such as staying hydrated, resting, avoiding smoke, and using a humidifier can alleviate symptoms.
Current COVID-19 Situation in the Bay Area
Tracking COVID-19 cases has shifted from relying solely on positive test results to monitoring virus levels in wastewater. Data from WastewaterSCAN indicates that while levels in the Bay Area have been rising since late spring, they remain in the “medium” category and are lower than last year’s summer surge.
Residents can check local wastewater data for COVID-19 levels in counties such as San Francisco, Alameda, and others to stay informed about the virus’s prevalence in their area.
Vaccine Efficacy Against the New Variant
The COVID-19 vaccine released in August 2024 remains effective against the NB.1.8.1 variant. Dr. Chin-Hong advises those who haven’t received their shot to do so, especially if planning to travel abroad. The vaccine not only provides protection for about a year but also prepares individuals for potential policy changes regarding vaccine distribution.
Testing and Exposure Guidelines
With the Nimbus variant, incubation times have shortened, making it possible to test positive as early as two days after exposure. Dr. Chin-Hong recommends retesting if the initial test is negative and symptoms persist, as early tests may not detect the virus due to rapid symptom onset.
Ensuring that COVID-19 tests are not expired is crucial for accurate results. The FDA provides a list of tests with extended shelf lives. If a test’s control line does not appear, it may be faulty.
Accessing COVID-19 Tests
Finding free COVID-19 tests has become challenging as many testing sites have closed. Options include purchasing at-home antigen tests from pharmacies, with reimbursement available for insured individuals, or seeking PCR tests from local health centers or through health care providers.
As the pandemic evolves, staying informed about symptoms, testing, and vaccination remains essential for navigating the ongoing challenges posed by COVID-19 and its variants.
