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.

The newest variant, NB.1.8.1, also known as Nimbus, is now widespread in California and across the United States. The new variant comes with increased transmissibility, and some are reporting an unpleasant symptom: “ razor blade throat ,” or a severe sore throat.

A new COVID-19 variant called NB.1.8.1 is seeing a surge in US and has become a cause of concern for health officials. Designated as NB.1.8.1, the Nimbus strain is a descendant of Omicron and may be causing one “very painful” symptom.