Nimbus Variant: 'Razor Blade Throat' Pain Signals New COVID-19 Symptom – Experts Explain the Severity and What You Need to Know

After a period of relative quiet, COVID-19 is once again on the rise, with new cases reported globally. The latest variant, known as Nimbus, is under close observation. While doctors indicate that it generally does not lead to severe illness, and most individuals recover at home with rest and hydration, a concerning new symptom is emerging: intense throat pain, often described as "Razor Blade throat." This pain is so severe that it feels like swallowing shards of glass. Let's delve into this symptom and explore the reasons behind its excruciating nature.

What is the “Razor Blade” Sore Throat?

The term "razor blade" sore throat refers to the extreme throat pain associated with the Nimbus variant of COVID-19. Unlike the milder discomfort experienced with previous strains, this symptom is characterized by a sharp, stabbing pain. Many sufferers find it incredibly difficult to swallow food or even water. First reports of this symptom surfaced in China when the variant emerged in May 2025, and it has since spread to the United States and other countries. Currently, Nimbus is responsible for approximately one-third of all COVID-19 cases in the U.S.

Unpacking the Pain: Why is it So Severe?

COVID-19 primarily affects the respiratory system, entering the body through the nose, mouth, and throat – all components of the upper respiratory tract.

Early in the infection, the virus replicates within the throat lining. This prompts the body's immune system to respond, resulting in inflammation and swelling of the throat tissues. With the Nimbus variant, this immune reaction appears to be particularly strong or focused on the throat area. Several factors may contribute to this phenomenon:

• New variant: Nimbus might be more adept at infecting throat cells compared to earlier variants, leading to greater damage and irritation.
• Immune system reaction: With widespread vaccination and prior COVID-19 infections, people's immune systems may react more aggressively to Nimbus. The throat is rich in lymph nodes and immune cells, potentially causing intense inflammation as a protective measure.
• Change in virus pattern: As the virus evolves, its patterns also change. Previous variants often caused a loss of taste and smell, while newer variants like Nimbus seem to trigger more significant throat pain.

Differentiating from a Regular Sore Throat

Sore throats can arise from numerous causes, including the common cold, flu, allergies, acid reflux, or bacterial infections like strep throat. What distinguishes the COVID-19 "razor blade" sore throat is the extreme intensity and sharpness of the pain. (Although severe throat pain isn't exclusive to Covid-19.)

Doctors caution that the similarity of this symptom to other illnesses can make it challenging to determine whether a sore throat is due to COVID-19 or something else. If the pain is severe or persists for more than a few days, it's crucial to undergo COVID-19 testing. Even if the test is negative, a doctor can determine whether antibiotics are necessary to manage the infection.

Additional Symptoms of Nimbus Variant

Besides the severe sore throat, Nimbus presents symptoms similar to those seen with other COVID-19 variants, including:

• Fever (ranging from low to high grade)
• Whooping Cough
• Fatigue
• Muscle aches
• Headaches
• Loss of taste or smell (less common now)
• Swollen lymph nodes
• Difficulty swallowing

Finding Relief: Managing the Pain

While the pain associated with "razor blade" throat can be intense, several home remedies can help alleviate discomfort:

• Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids, such as water, warm tea, or broth, to soothe the throat and prevent dryness. Avoid extremely hot beverages, as they can further irritate the throat. Lukewarm is ideal.
• Use throat lozenges: These can provide temporary numbing and pain relief.
• Gargle with warm (not hot) salt water: This helps to reduce inflammation and kill some bacteria in the throat.
• Rest your voice: Limit talking to minimize further irritation.
• Over-the-counter pain relievers: Medications like acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation. Consult a doctor before use.

If your sore throat worsens, lasts more than a week, or is accompanied by difficulty breathing or swallowing, seek immediate medical attention.

Sources:

WebMD, “Why COVID 'Razor Blade' Sore Throat Hurts So Bad,” June 26, 2025

Everyday Health, “How to Cope With a COVID-19 Sore Throat,” June 23, 2025

Healthline, “New COVID Variant Nimbus May Cause Painful ‘Razor Blade Throat’ Symptom,” June 19, 2025