Painful sore throats have been a common symptom of previous COVID strains, but Nimbus is gaining attention for what some describe as excruciating pain. Patients have likened the sensation to swallowing razor blades or shards of glass. Other symptoms include fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion.

NB.1.8.1, a new COVID-19 variant that has caused concern among WHO officials, is now spreading in America, according to CDC data.

A new COVID-19 subvariant born from Omicron has become the dominant strain in the U.S. and cases have been spreading throughout the Empire State in recent weeks. The subvariant of Omicron, called "Nimbus" (NB.