A new COVID-19 subvariant known as “Nimbus” is spreading quickly around the world and is known for causing “razor blade throat” symptoms.
While it’s not currently classified as a major threat, its rapid spread has raised concern among health experts.
As of late April, Nimbus was responsible for approximately 11% of COVID-19 cases, which is a significant increase from just 2.5% in March.
First detected in January, the subvariant carries multiple mutations in the virus’s spike protein, which enhances its ability to infect human cells.
These genetic changes may also help it evade the immune system, potentially making it more contagious, even among people who’ve been vaccinated or previously infected.
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist, explained that the new variant is “a little bit more transmissible” than earlier strains, but emphasized that it does not appear to cause more severe illness.
Currently, most COVID-19 cases in the U.S. are still caused by an Omicron descendant known as LP.8.1, but Nimbus is spreading, gaining ground.
The California Department of Public Health has acknowledged the rise in cases linked to the Nimbus subvariant, noting that it appears to be spreading faster than other strains. It is currently being monitored closely through wastewater surveillance and genomic sequencing.
In recent weeks, wastewater data has shown signs of stabilizing. However, COVID-19 test positivity rates have risen from 1.1% in March to nearly 3% in June. Despite this increase, hospitalization rates remain low.
The new subvariant is known to cause a particularly intense sore throat, with many describing the feeling as similar to “swallowing glass.”
Dr. Peter Chin-Hong pointed out that while the symptom sounds alarming, sore throats have always been a common feature of COVID-19 and are not unique to this variant.
According to San Francisco’s Department of Public Health, the region is currently experiencing low levels of COVID-19. Still, officials are encouraging residents to stay up to date with their vaccinations, especially as many prepare for summer travel.
He advises individuals in these groups to take extra precautions, such as staying up to date with vaccinations and wearing masks in higher-risk settings.
Last year, more than half of adults over the age of 65 did not receive their COVID-19 vaccination. However, Dr. Chin-Hong noted that they remain eligible to get vaccinated this summer.
