4 unusual symptoms of newly identified NB.1.8.1 COVID variant which is spreading in the world

A new COVID-19 variant named NB.1.8.1, or ‘Nimbus’, is making quiet but swift rounds across several parts of the world. It’s not just the usual fatigue or fever that’s troubling people; this time, it’s something sharper, something more unexpected.


While scientists confirm that this Omicron subvariant doesn’t lead to more severe disease, what’s catching global attention is its unusual presentation, symptoms that feel different from what earlier COVID waves showed. And that makes it even more important to know what signs to watch out for.


Here are 4 surprising symptoms of the Nimbus variant that are creating a buzz among doctors and patients alike, along with the science behind what’s real and what’s just speculation.


A sore throat that feels like razor blades

Patients infected with the NB.1.8.1 variant have reported a sore throat so intense, they’ve likened it to “swallowing glass” or “razor blades.”



Global health reports have confirmed that this sharp throat pain is indeed a defining symptom of the new variant. Unlike previous sore throats linked to Omicron or Delta, this one comes on fast and can be severely painful even with mild fever.


This symptom may not indicate greater danger, but it does signal high infectivity. The pain likely stems from the variant’s increased ability to bind tightly to throat cells, making it a hotspot for early replication.


Sudden loss of appetite

One overlooked but increasingly reported sign is a sudden dip in appetite, even without nausea or stomach issues.


This symptom isn’t new to COVID-19, but in the case of Nimbus, it seems to come early and without other digestive complaints. It is suggested this could be due to inflammatory markers affecting the hypothalamus (the appetite control center in the brain), even before other symptoms surface.



A significant change in eating habits without any clear reason may be worth keeping an eye on, especially if paired with fatigue or body aches.


Muscle aches in unusual areas

Muscle pain isn’t new, but in this wave, people have been experiencing soreness in odd spots—like the jaw, upper back, and even behind the ears.


These aches could be linked to how this variant activates the immune system. NB.1.8.1 causes an early inflammatory reaction, especially in muscle groups that aren't usually affected by respiratory illnesses.


It’s not always full-body fatigue, sometimes, discomfort in specific muscles might be telling a bigger story.


Irritating nasal congestion that lingers

Persistent nasal stuffiness, described as “never-ending congestion,” is another complaint that has stood out in NB.1.8.1 cases.

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Is it different from a cold? Quite possibly. Patients have reported that usual decongestants don’t work effectively, and the congestion feels heavier, sometimes lasting over a week. This could be due to longer viral shedding in the nasal passages caused by this specific subvariant.


Unlike seasonal colds, this symptom tends to stay and can increase the risk of spreading the virus to others through sneezing or coughing.

(This article is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment)