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.

Medical experts acknowledge that symptoms with recent Omicron subvariants tend to focus more on the upper respiratory tract, particularly the throat and nasal passages. This contrasts with earlier variants like Delta and Alpha, which often caused more severe lower respiratory infections involving the lungs.