• Source:JND
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A croaky voice and a sharp, “razor blade” sore throat are emerging as distinctive signs of the latest Covid variants now sweeping across the United States. The two strains, XFB, dubbed Stratus, and NB.1.8.1, known as Nimbus, are fueling a regional surge in cases, particularly in the northeast, where infections have spiked sharply in recent weeks. 

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that overall Covid wastewater levels in the US remain at a “moderate” level. But four states are reporting "very high" levels, with the northeast region reporting a consistent increase. Wastewater surveillance is becoming a prime tool for tracking community spread, because it mirrors the amount of virus that people are shedding.

Cases started increasing in late August, peaking mid-September before beginning to decline. Experts warn that the virus is not receding uniformly throughout the nation, with some regions experiencing a resurgence of infections.

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Strains With Unusual Symptoms

Physicians add that Stratus typically appears with hoarseness, scratchy throats, or a mild soreness, conditions that may easily be confused with seasonal allergies. Nimbus, on the other hand, was infamous earlier this summer for inducing an abnormally nasty sore throat that patients likened to "swallowing razor blades."

While most cases remain mild, particularly among vaccinated individuals, scientists warn that both strains carry mutations that allow them to bypass antibodies from earlier infections and vaccines. This makes them harder to contain and potentially more disruptive as winter approaches.

Expert Views On Preparedness

Dr. Tyler Evans, an infectious disease expert and New York City’s chief medical officer during the first wave of the pandemic, emphasized vigilance. “Covid activity is clearly on the rise again,” he said. “While we’re in a much better place than in 2020, rising transmission still poses a risk to those with underlying conditions or limited access to care. Concern should lead to preparedness, but not panic.”

The CDC has admitted that it has “low confidence” in variant estimates due to limited sequencing data from states, but still warns that Stratus and Nimbus are accounting for a growing share of infections. 

Earlier this month, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunisation Practices recommended updated 2025–2026 Covid vaccines for all Americans six months and older, to be considered in consultation with healthcare providers.

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Public health officials continue to stress basic measures: stay home if sick, practice good hygiene, improve indoor air ventilation, and stay current with vaccines. These precautions, experts say, remain the most effective tools in curbing the spread of evolving variants.