A new COVID-19 variant spreading across the United States may cause an extremely painful sore throat—dubbed the "razor throat"—among its symptoms. The new "Nimbus" strain, also known as COVID-19 NB 1.

Just before the busy summer travel season in the US, a new COVID variant called NB.1.8.1—also known as “Nimbus”—is quickly spreading across the world. This version of the virus, which is part of the Omicron family,

COVID appears to be on the rise as a new, highly contagious subvariant — featuring “razor blade throat” symptoms overseas — is becoming increasingly dominant.