New COVID strain, ‘Nimbus’ reaches MA: Symptoms, testing, vaccine info
‘Razor blade throat’ COVID-19 variant emerges
The new COVID-19 variant carries with it a series of symptoms, including leaving those sick with a feeling of razor blades in their throat.
- A new COVID strain called “Nimbus” is now in the U.S.
- Nimbus has spread to at least 22 countries
- Symptoms include “razor blade” sore throat
Once again, a new strain of COVID has hit the country, and that includes the state of Massachusetts.
According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), as of early June, the new strain known as NB.1.8.1 made up 37% of COVID-19 cases nationwide, making it the second most prominent variant in circulation.
Variant NB.1.8.1 was first detected in China in January but accounted for about 0% of cases in the United States until May. By early June, it was estimated to account for up to 37%, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The World Health Organization evaluated the additional public health risk posed by the variant as “low at the global level in a May report, in which it also advised that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are “expected to remain effective to this variant against symptomatic and severe disease.”
Here’s more about the new COVID strain.
What’s the new COVID strain being called?
While its scientific name is NB.1.8.1, it has been nicknamed, “Nimbus.”
Virologists describe Nimbus as a “slightly upgraded” version of its predecessor. While there is no evidence it causes more severe disease, it appears to be highly transmissible.
What are the symptoms of Nimbus?
Reported symptoms of NB.1.8.1 are similar to other COVID-19 strains, but one distinctive complaint is a severe sore throat, sometimes described as “razor-blade throat fatigue.” Other symptoms may include:
- Mild cough
- Fever
- Muscle aches
- Nasal congestion
Are vaccines still effective?
Health experts say that updated COVID-19 vaccines remain the best protection against severe illness. Vaccination rates vary widely by state, and health officials continue to urge eligible individuals to stay current with their shots.
How can people get tested?
People can either take an at-home test or they can see their respective doctors.
“You can order free rapid antigen tests online at COVIDTests.gov,” according to the Mass Brigham Hospital website. “As of late September 2024, each order includes (four) tests with a limit of one per address.”
The USA Today Network contributed to this report.
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