Nimbus Covid Variant Triggers Hospital Surge with Razor-Throat Symptom

As the world continues its fight against evolving strains of the coronavirus, a new variant known as NB.1.8.1, or the Nimbus Covid variant, is causing significant concern among health authorities. This new strain, emerging prominently in the UK, USA, China, and Australia, is characterized by a particularly painful symptom—a razor blade throat sensation—and is contributing to a surge in hospitalizations.

Nimbus Covid Variant: Understanding the Rising Threat

The Nimbus Covid variant has been under close scrutiny by the World Health Organization (WHO) since its detection in January. Officially designated as NB.1.8.1, the variant is spreading rapidly and is now the dominant strain in several countries. In the UK, hospital admissions linked to Covid have risen by 9.4% in a week, totaling 947 patients in the seven days leading up to May 31.

Despite the absence of widespread testing, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) recorded 1,211 new cases in the week ending June 4—a 6.9% increase from the previous week. Although the death rate has decreased by 12.5%, with 63 deaths reported in the week up to May 30, the upward trend in hospitalizations is prompting heightened vigilance.

What sets Nimbus apart is its unusual and intensely painful symptom: a severe sore throat likened to swallowing razor blades. This distressing sensation has been reported by numerous patients and is being closely monitored by general practitioners and virologists.

Symptoms, Transmission, and Vaccine Response to the Nimbus Variant

Dr. Naveed Asif of The London General Practice elaborated on the distinctive hallmark of the variant—the razor blade throat. This symptom involves a sharp, stabbing pain at the back of the throat, making swallowing extremely difficult. Alongside this painful symptom, other common signs include:

• Persistent fatigue
• Mild to moderate cough
• High fever
• Muscle aches
• Nasal congestion
• Occasional digestive discomfort like nausea or diarrhoea

The Nimbus variant has shown a higher transmission rate than previous strains. It’s more infectious and has demonstrated the ability to spread rapidly in crowded or poorly ventilated environments. Currently, it represents about a third of all cases in the United States and is becoming increasingly prevalent in Europe.

While vaccines and prior infections offer some level of immunity, their effectiveness has reportedly decreased by about 50% against the Nimbus strain. Nevertheless, the WHO reassures that approved Covid-19 vaccines remain effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalizations caused by NB.1.8.1. The WHO has also confirmed no current evidence that Nimbus leads to more severe disease compared to earlier variants.

Preventive Measures and Public Health Advisory

The UKHSA has reiterated the importance of adhering to public health guidelines, especially for those exhibiting symptoms. The key recommendations include:

• Staying at home if you feel unwell or exhibit any symptoms of respiratory infection.
• Avoiding close contact with individuals who are immunocompromised or at higher risk of severe illness.
• Wearing a high-quality face mask in crowded or enclosed spaces.
• Engaging in outdoor activities rather than indoor gatherings to minimize transmission.
• Practicing good hand hygiene and respiratory etiquette—covering mouth/nose while sneezing, frequent handwashing, and avoiding face-touching.

The NHS has also emphasized the importance of staying informed and seeking medical advice if symptoms persist or worsen. For non-emergency assistance, patients are advised to contact their GP or call 111. In cases of serious distress such as difficulty breathing, emergency services should be contacted immediately.

Globally, authorities are carefully watching NB.1.8.1 as it continues to evolve. The rapid growth of cases in countries like China and Australia underscores the need for vigilance, even if the variant does not yet show signs of being more deadly.

Read about other health updates on our English news section and keep track of global health trends.

With the Nimbus Covid variant gaining ground, staying alert and informed is more important than ever.

What You Need to Know About the Nimbus COVID-19 Variant Sweeping Across the Globe

FAQs About the Nimbus Covid Variant

What is the Nimbus Covid variant?

The Nimbus Covid variant, officially labeled NB.1.8.1, is a rapidly spreading strain of coronavirus identified by its signature symptom: a painful sore throat. It’s currently prominent in the UK, USA, China, and Australia.

What are the symptoms of the Nimbus variant?

Key symptoms include a razor-like sore throat, fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches, congestion, and occasionally, digestive issues like nausea.

Is the Nimbus variant more dangerous than other strains?

While it spreads more quickly, current data shows it does not cause more severe illness than other variants. Vaccines still offer protection against serious outcomes.

Can I catch Nimbus if I’ve already had Covid?

Yes, reinfection is possible. Previous infection offers reduced protection, and vaccines are about 50% effective in preventing symptoms from this variant.

What should I do if I think I have the Nimbus variant?

Stay home, avoid contact with high-risk individuals, wear a mask, and consult a GP if symptoms persist or worsen. In emergencies, call 999.

How can I protect myself against the Nimbus variant?

Practice good hygiene, wear masks in enclosed spaces, and stay updated on vaccinations. Outdoor activities and avoiding crowds also help reduce transmission risk.