A new wave of COVID-19 infections is hitting the UK and the US, driven by two emerging Omicron subvariants — nicknamed Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) and Stratus (XFB). Doctors warn these variants may hit differently: a hoarse, croaky voice and an intense “razor-blade” sore throat are now among the most noticeable warning signs.
Cases Climbing Fast
UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reports positivity rates jumping from 7.6% to 8.4% in just a week. Hospital admissions rose sharply to 2.73 per 100,000 — the fastest spike since summer. Across the US, the CDC shows “moderate” nationwide wastewater COVID levels, with several Northeastern states reaching “very high,” signaling another potential winter surge.
Symptoms Are Shifting
Patients describe the sore throat as extreme. “It feels like your throat is lined with razor blades,” says Dr. Aaron Glatt, infectious disease specialist in New York. Voice loss for several days, severe congestion, headaches, fatigue, and mild coughing are also reported. While more contagious, these variants do not appear more severe than previous Omicron strains, but their fast spread is raising concern.
Vaccination Campaigns Step Up
The UK launched its winter COVID and flu booster campaign early. High-risk groups include:
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