COVID Variant Sparks “Razor Blade Throat” Amidst Summer Uptick
NB.1.8.1 strain causes severe throat pain, but experts stress it doesn’t increase hospitalization risk.
A familiar virus is making its presence felt this summer with a particularly painful symptom. The dominant COVID-19 variant, NB.1.8.1, nicknamed “razor blade throat,” is circulating, causing discomfort for many. However, public health officials note that despite a rise in infections, severe outcomes remain at historic lows.
Understanding the “Razor Blade Throat”
The NB.1.8.1 strain, also known as Nimbus, accounts for a significant portion of current COVID-19 cases. Its hallmark symptom, a searing sore throat, has prompted widespread concern.
“We’re hearing a lot about this particular symptom. It’s probably just a function of how the SARS-CoV-2 virus is able to bind more effectively to receptors in the upper airway.”
—Neil Maniar, Director of Northeastern University’s Master of Public Health Program
Neil Maniar, Director of Northeastern University’s Master of Public Health Program, explains that the variant’s spike protein may bind more efficiently to ACE receptors, which are concentrated in the upper respiratory tract. This increased binding affinity is believed to be the cause of the intense throat pain.
Other reported symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 include headache, fatigue, runny nose, sneezing, nausea, and vomiting.
Increased Transmissibility, Not Severity
While NB.1.8.1 may be more contagious due to structural changes in the virus, experts emphasize that it is not linked to a rise in hospitalizations or deaths. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) data from mid-July indicated hospitalization rates at one per 100,000, a slight increase from the previous month, but overall fatalities remain near their lowest points since early 2020.
As of July 19, the COVID-19 weekly positivity rate had climbed to 5.1%, up from 4.2% the week prior. This uptick, rather than a surge, can be attributed to several factors.
“We’re at the point with COVID where we’re going to see the same kind of cycle we see with other types of similar diseases, including the flu,” Maniar stated. Factors such as increased travel, social gatherings, and the natural waning of vaccine immunity contribute to these seasonal fluctuations.
Staying Protected This Summer
The CDC continues to recommend the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine for most adults. For children aged six months to 17 years, parents are advised to consult with a healthcare provider about vaccination benefits. The current vaccines are expected to offer protection against NB.1.8.1, as both the variant and the vaccine target strains belong to the Omicron family.
“We know that anyone can get very sick from COVID. The vaccine really reduces the likelihood you’re going to get severe illness,” Maniar added. Staying up-to-date with vaccinations is crucial for reducing the risk of severe illness and complications.