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Almost half a decade of cohabiting with the novel coronavirus, and it keeps presenting new health challenges. In the latest iteration, a newly emerging subvariant of COVID-19 has sparked concerns amongst healthcare professionals and patients alike. The new Nimbus variant (NB.1.8.1),commonly known as the ‘razor blade throat’ due to its severe throat pain, is spreading rapidly in California, concerning many.
Health systems in LA County of Los Angeles Department of Public Health have alerted all hospitals in the area about the rise in patients complaining of severe sore throats in parts of California. Upon testing, many of these patients are turning out to be COVID-positive, reinforcing the need for broader public awareness. As this strain moves swiftly, making people its prey all over California and more, the question about its symptoms, cure, care, and transmission is also gaining traction.
Is the New COVID-19 Wave Life-threatening?
The new Nimbus variant is rapidly spreading in parts of Asia, accounting for one-third of the active COVID-19 cases. This “variant under monitoring” by the WHO is now facing severe cases of sore throat along with other symptoms consistent with COVID-19, especially in parts of Asia and now in California.
According to Dr Shubham Agarwal, Consultant Pulmonologist, Apollo Medics Superspeciality Hospital, Lucknow, “The new Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) strain is being reported to cause severe pain in the throat. While this symptom isn’t potentially life-threatening, it does disrupt the quality of life as the person cannot eat properly, swallow properly, and even sleep properly.”
Why is the New Variant Attacking the Throat?
According to Dr Agarwal, the virus’s evolution is now allowing it to target different epithelial cells faster than before. This might be the reason patients are now experiencing more intense pain in the throat.
“In recent cases, the difficulty in throat infection has reached a stage where patients are describing their pain as 'swallowing shards of glass' or a 'burning razor blade-like sensation' in the throat.”
How is Nimbus Different From Omicron?
The COVID-19 omicron variant attacked on nasal passage and caused symptoms like congestion, fatigue, or low-grade fever, but Nimbus strain is attacking the upper respiratory tract more aggressively, primarily targeting the tonsils and throat lining.
What are the New COVID-29 Symptoms?
Some of the WHO-approved symptoms observed in the Nimbus patients are:
- Sharp pain in the throat
- Difficulty Swallowing
- Dry Cough or Scratching in the Throat
- Accompanied by mild fever, chills, and congestion (in some cases)
“Do not ignore these symptoms as seasonal cold and strep throat, if these escalate quickly,” advised Dr Agarwal.
What to Do If Experiencing “Razor Blade Throat”?
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Talking about precautions and possible steps to take if you’re experiencing ‘razor blade throat’, Dr Agarwal listed a few steps. Read them below:
Prompt Testing:
- It is advised to first use a rapid antigen test. If negative and the symptoms persist or get worse, follow up with a PCR test to get accurate results.
- While awaiting test results, its best to isolate the person experiencing the symptoms, so as to avoid any transmission, especially to people with co-morbidities.
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Home Remedies to Follow
For Throat Pain:
- Use warm salt water to gargle and soothe the throat
- Take throat lozenges or sprays with numbing agents like menthol
- Take warm fluids like herbal teas, soups, and broths
- Use a humidifier to ease dry air irritation that can cause a cough and throat irritation.
- Avoid extremely hot or spicy foods, as they may worsen the burning sensation.
Consult a Doctor When:
- The pain persists and doesn’t ease in a couple of days.
- If you develop a fever or shortness of breath wita a sore throat
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Precautions to Take While Infected:
- Mask up: If you’re experiencing sore throat with fever, it’s time to wear a mask to prevent spreading.
- Isolate: When infected or suspecting one, isolate yourself to heal fast and without spreading it further.
- Booster Dose: If facing symptoms, it is advised to stay up to date on vaccines and their booster shots.