A new COVID-19 variant, designated NB.1.8.1, is causing concern worldwide, marked by a particularly painful sore throat described as feeling like "razor blades." The World Health Organization (WHO) is monitoring this variant, which was first detected in China in January.
Despite its rapid spread, the WHO currently assesses the global public health risk posed by NB.1.8.1 as low. Existing COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective in preventing symptomatic and severe illness caused by this variant.
Subhash Verma, a microbiology and immunology professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, describes NB.1.8.1 as a "slightly upgraded version" of the LP.8.1 variant. Verma suggests that NB.1.8.1 may spread more easily and evade antibodies from vaccines or previous infections more effectively than LP.8.1.
One of the hallmark symptoms associated with NB.1.8.1 is an intensely painful sore throat. Patients are reporting a sensation akin to razor blades lining their throat, a symptom that has gained traction across social media and various news platforms. Similar, though less prevalent, descriptions of "glass shard" throat pain have been associated with other COVID-19 strains.
While the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet outlined specific symptoms exclusive to NB.1.8.1, available information suggests symptoms are similar to those of previous COVID-19 variants. Common symptoms include fever or chills, cough, shortness of breath, sore throat, congestion, loss of taste or smell, fatigue, muscle aches, headache, and nausea.
The CDC recommends seeking immediate medical care if you experience trouble breathing, persistent chest pain, new confusion, inability to wake or stay awake, or a change in skin color to pale, gray, or blue.
The WHO advises that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide protection against the NB.1.8.1 variant. The CDC recommends that individuals over six months of age receive the updated 2024-2025 COVID-19 vaccine, specifically the 2024-2025 Moderna COVID-19 Vaccine. Vaccination is particularly encouraged for those who have never been vaccinated, individuals aged 65 and older, those with compromised immune systems, residents of long-term care facilities, pregnant individuals, and those seeking to avoid long COVID.
Recent recommendations regarding COVID-19 vaccinations are evolving. There's the potential for changes to recommended immunization schedules, and new clinical trials may be required for annual booster approvals. This may lead to some individuals needing to pay out-of-pocket for vaccinations.
It is important to note that updated COVID-19 vaccines are not technically "boosters" but rather vaccines designed to protect against new variants. Boosters are additional doses of the same vaccine used to maintain immunity.
For individuals without health insurance, free COVID-19 testing remains available through the Increasing Community Access to Testing, Treatment and Response (ICATT) program. The CDC's website provides a locator tool to find nearby free testing locations.