Meet the New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1: Know Its Symptoms and How to Treat Them

A new COVID-19 variant called NB.1.8.1, also known as ‘Nimbus’, is spreading rapidly in parts of Asia and has also been detected in the United States, Canada, and Europe. Health experts have noted a unique and painful symptom linked to this variant — a severe sore throat that feels like swallowing razor blades.

This symptom has caught attention due to its intensity, making it difficult for patients to talk, eat, or even drink water. In addition to this, common symptoms such as blocked nose, tiredness, mild cough, fever, and body aches are also present. Some people may also experience nausea or diarrhea.

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Despite its rapid spread and high ability to evade immunity, the World Health Organization (WHO) has stated that the overall global risk from this variant remains low. Current COVID-19 vaccines are still effective in preventing severe illness caused by the Nimbus variant. For those experiencing the painful sore throat, several simple remedies can offer relief.

These include over-the-counter pain relievers like paracetamol or ibuprofen, warm saltwater gargles, throat lozenges or sprays containing menthol or benzocaine, drinking warm fluids such as herbal tea or soup, and using a humidifier to prevent dryness in the throat.

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However, it’s important to seek medical help if symptoms get worse or don’t improve. Warning signs include difficulty breathing, high fever lasting several days, inability to stay hydrated, or worsening throat pain. People with existing health conditions, the elderly, and pregnant women should be extra cautious. To stay protected from the Nimbus variant, continue following basic COVID-19 safety measures such as wearing masks in crowded spaces, washing hands regularly, maintaining distance from sick individuals, and staying up to date with vaccinations. Being informed and cautious can help manage this new variant and reduce its impact.