Introduction to ‘Razor Blade Throat’ COVID
The COVID-19 variant that may be driving a recent rise in cases in some parts of the world has earned a new nickname: “razor blade throat” COVID. That’s because the variant — NB.1.8.1. or “Nimbus” — may cause painful sore throats. The symptom has been identified by doctors in the United Kingdom, India and elsewhere, according to media outlets in those countries. Other COVID-19 symptoms of any variant include fever, chills, cough, shortness of breath or loss of taste or smell.
Symptoms and Concerns
Experts say there isn’t major cause for concern with the Nimbus variant, but it’s essential to understand its implications. HHS Secretary Robert Kennedy Jr. posted a video on social media where he, along with NIH Director Jay Bhattacharya and FDA Commissioner Marty Makary, announced that the CDC would no longer recommend the COVID vaccine for healthy children and pregnant women.
Spread of the Variant
Global Reach
The rise in cases late last month is primarily in eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia and western Pacific regions, the World Health Organization said May 28. The new variant had reached nearly 11% of sequenced samples reported globally in mid-May.
Airport screening in the United States detected the new variant in travelers arriving from those regions to destinations in California, Washington state, Virginia and New York.
Severity and Vaccine Efficacy
Comparison to Other Variants
Not so far, anyway. The WHO said some western Pacific countries have reported increases in COVID cases and hospitalizations, but there’s nothing so far to suggest that the disease associated with the new variant is more severe compared to other variants. The new variant is called NB.1.8.1. It arrives as the United States’ official stance on COVID-19 vaccination is changing.
Vaccine Effectiveness
Yes. The WHO has designated Nimbus as a “variant under monitoring” and considers the public health risk low at the global level. Current vaccines are expected to remain effective. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr. announced last month that COVID-19 shots are no longer recommended for healthy children and pregnant women — a move immediately questioned by public health experts.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the "razor blade throat" COVID variant presents a new symptom, it does not appear to cause more severe disease than other variants. Vaccines are expected to remain effective against this variant, offering a layer of protection against COVID-19. It’s crucial to stay informed and follow public health guidelines to mitigate the spread of COVID-19.
FAQs
- Q: What is the "razor blade throat" COVID variant?
A: The "razor blade throat" COVID variant, also known as NB.1.8.1 or "Nimbus," is a COVID-19 variant that may cause painful sore throats among other symptoms. - Q: Where is the Nimbus variant spreading?
A: The variant is primarily spreading in the eastern Mediterranean, Southeast Asia, and western Pacific regions, with cases also detected in the United States. - Q: Are COVID-19 vaccines effective against the Nimbus variant?
A: Yes, current vaccines are expected to remain effective against the Nimbus variant. - Q: Is the disease associated with the new variant more severe?
A: There’s nothing so far to suggest that the disease associated with the new variant is more severe compared to other variants.
