COVID-19 Update
Jun. 18, 2025
Updated Aug. 15, 2025 at 8:08 p.m. CDT
Introduction to COVID-19 Variant NB.1.8.1
A new variant of COVID-19 is spreading across the U.S., causing a painful symptom dubbed “razor blade throat.” COVID variant NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus, accounts for more than a third of COVID cases in the U.S., according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. First detected in January of this year, the strain has been detected in at least 22 countries and is on the rise worldwide, according to the World Health Organization.
Spread of Nimbus Variant
In the U.S., it has been confirmed in California, Washington state, Virginia and New York. It is unclear if Texas has seen any cases. The state’s figures were last updated May 10 on the CDC’s website. Nationwide, Nimbus accounted for 37% of COVID cases from May 25 to June 7, more than double its share from the previous two weeks, according to the CDC. The Omicron variant was slightly more common, at 38%.
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Symptoms of Nimbus Variant
Painful sore throats have been a common symptom of previous COVID strains, but Nimbus is gaining attention for what some describe as excruciating pain. Patients have likened the sensation to swallowing razor blades or shards of glass. Other symptoms include fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion.
Vaccine Effectiveness and Eligibility
In a report released last month, WHO says it is monitoring the strain but that it does not appear to pose an additional public health threat compared to other variants. COVID vaccines are effective in preventing the Nimbus strain. Confusion about who will be eligible to get a vaccine this fall is growing. Last month, U.S. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced that COVID vaccines are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women — a move questioned by some public health experts.
The announcement came as the Food and Drug Administration provided new requirements for the shots, saying the vaccine would be available to adults 65 and older and children and younger adults with at least one health problem that puts them at higher risk. Following recommendations by infectious disease experts, health officials in the U.S. had been urging annual COVID boosters for all Americans ages 6 months and older.
The Associated Press contributed to this report.
Conclusion
The Nimbus variant of COVID-19 is a new strain that is spreading rapidly across the U.S. and worldwide. While it does not appear to pose an additional public health threat compared to other variants, its symptoms can be severe and painful. It is essential to stay informed about the latest developments and follow the recommended guidelines for vaccination and prevention.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the Nimbus variant of COVID-19?
A: The Nimbus variant, also known as COVID variant NB.1.8.1, is a new strain of COVID-19 that is spreading across the U.S. and worldwide.
Q: What are the symptoms of the Nimbus variant?
A: The symptoms of the Nimbus variant include a painful sore throat, fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches, and congestion. Some patients have described the sensation as excruciating pain, likening it to swallowing razor blades or shards of glass.
Q: Is the COVID vaccine effective against the Nimbus variant?
A: Yes, COVID vaccines are effective in preventing the Nimbus strain. However, there is confusion about who will be eligible to get a vaccine this fall, with the U.S. Health Secretary announcing that COVID vaccines are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women.
Q: Who is eligible to get a COVID vaccine?
A: According to the Food and Drug Administration, the vaccine will be available to adults 65 and older and children and younger adults with at least one health problem that puts them at higher risk.
Q: What can I do to protect myself from the Nimbus variant?
A: To protect yourself from the Nimbus variant, it is essential to follow the recommended guidelines for vaccination and prevention, such as getting vaccinated, wearing a mask, and practicing good hygiene.
