A new Covid-19 variant, called NB.1.8.1, is spreading in several parts of the world, including the United States and Asia. Informally known as “Nimbus”, the variant is said to be more transmissible but not necessarily more dangerous than previous strains.What Is the Main Symptom?One of the most talked-about symptoms of the Nimbus variant is a very painful sore throat, often called “razor blade throat”. People have described the feeling as similar to swallowing glass or razor blades. Reports suggest this symptom is becoming more common in those infected with this strain.What Are Other Symptoms?Along with the sore throat, patients infected with the new variant have also reported:Nasal congestion or a runny noseFatigueMild coughFeverMuscle or body achesSome people may also experience:HeadachesDiarrhoeaNausea or vomitingLoss of taste or smell (less common now)Shortness of breathHow Is It Different?Doctors say that the main difference with this variant is the severity of the sore throat. While past variants also caused throat pain, this one seems to cause more intense discomfort. The sore throat comes from irritation caused by infection in the throat’s cells.However, many experts believe the overall set of symptoms still matches those of previous Covid-19 strains.Should You Be Worried?So far, there is no strong evidence that Nimbus leads to more serious illness. But those who are unvaccinated or immunocompromised might still face higher risks, especially for breathing problems.Inputs from agencies
A new Covid-19 variant, called NB.1.8.1, is spreading in several parts of the world, including the United States and Asia. Informally known as “Nimbus”, the variant is said to be more transmissible but not necessarily more dangerous than previous strains.What Is the Main Symptom?One of the most talked-about symptoms of the Nimbus variant is a very painful sore throat, often called “razor blade throat”. People have described the feeling as similar to swallowing glass or razor blades. Reports suggest this symptom is becoming more common in those infected with this strain.What Are Other Symptoms?Along with the sore throat, patients infected with the new variant have also reported:Nasal congestion or a runny noseFatigueMild coughFeverMuscle or body achesSome people may also experience:HeadachesDiarrhoeaNausea or vomitingLoss of taste or smell (less common now)Shortness of breathHow Is It Different?Doctors say that the main difference with this variant is the severity of the sore throat. While past variants also caused throat pain, this one seems to cause more intense discomfort. The sore throat comes from irritation caused by infection in the throat’s cells.However, many experts believe the overall set of symptoms still matches those of previous Covid-19 strains.Should You Be Worried?So far, there is no strong evidence that Nimbus leads to more serious illness. But those who are unvaccinated or immunocompromised might still face higher risks, especially for breathing problems.Inputs from agencies Economic Times
