A newly identified strain of COVID-19 — NB.1.8.1, informally nicknamed "Nimbus" — is rapidly spreading across the U.S., raising concerns due to its unusual and painful symptoms.
🦠 What Is NB.1.8.1?
This subvariant of Omicron made up about 37% of COVID-19 cases in the U.S. in the two weeks leading up to June 7, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Unlike previous strains, NB.1.8.1 is associated with an excruciatingly painful sore throat that many patients have dubbed "razor blade throat."
⚠️ Key Symptoms of the NB.1.8.1 Variant
Patients have reported the following symptoms:
- Extremely painful sore throat
- Swollen glands
- Fever and chills
- Fatigue and body aches
- Runny nose or congestion
Although it shares features with Omicron, the “razor blade” sore throat appears more frequently and with greater severity.
🧬 Why It's Different
Health experts point out that the NB.1.8.1 variant replicates more in the upper respiratory tract, which may explain the localized throat pain. So far, hospitalization rates remain stable, but testing and variant monitoring continue as the strain spreads.
🧪 What Should You Do?
- Monitor symptoms — especially unusual sore throats.
- Get tested if you feel sick.
- Stay up-to-date on boosters.
- Practice good hygiene and ventilation in crowded spaces.
🩺 Health Officials Speak Out
“This variant may feel different, but the fundamentals of prevention remain the same,”
— CDC Spokesperson
Public health agencies continue to track NB.1.8.1 closely and recommend extra vigilance over the summer months, especially during travel season.
📰 Stay Informed
MicuPost will continue monitoring CDC reports and medical advisories.
Follow us for updates on this and other emerging health stories.
By ✍️ Yorlinda Ramìrez - MicuPost Team
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