Information on the spread of NIMBUS variant during a surge in COVID-19 cases in Texas during the summer
The Nimbus COVID-19 variant, also known as NB.1.8.1, has emerged as a notable player in the current surge of cases across the United States, particularly in Texas. This variant, distinguished by an unusually intense sore throat that feels like "razor blades," shares common symptoms with previous variants such as cough, runny nose or congestion, shortness of breath, fever or chills, body aches, fatigue, and new loss of smell or taste. Some cases also report hoarse voice and gastrointestinal symptoms like nausea and vomiting [1][2][3][5].
In comparison to other variants, the Nimbus variant stands out for its signature severe sore throat, a symptom that has earned it the nickname “razor blade throat” in media reports. Despite its rapid spread and increased transmissibility, current data indicate that Nimbus does not cause more severe illness than earlier variants, and that approved COVID-19 vaccines remain effective against it [1][2].
The CDC is reporting a seasonal surge in COVID-19 cases in a majority of states, with Texas listed as "growing or likely to grow." While the specific reasons for this surge are not fully understood, evidence suggests that warmer weather, increased indoor activity, and humidity may contribute to the rise in cases during the summer [6].
Dr. Trish Perl, a Professor in the Department of Internal Medicine at UT Southwestern Medical Center, specializing in general infectious diseases, discussed what people should know about the Nimbus variant. She explained that while the effectiveness of current COVID vaccines against Nimbus is not yet known, they may only prevent severe disease [7]. Dr. Perl also noted that the Nimbus variant binds well to the ACE2 inhibitor, making it more infectious and about 2.5 times more infectious than previous strains [7].
In contrast to the new XFG (Stratus) variant, which now dominates some areas and often causes hoarse or scratchy throat symptoms, Nimbus is fading but still recognized for its unique throat pain intensity [4].
The rise in COVID-19 cases in Texas may be due to the Nimbus variant, but this has not been confirmed. Much of the activity stems from the NB.1.8.1 variant, also known as "NIMBUS." However, the CDC has not provided specific data explaining why Texas is seeing a surge in COVID-19 cases compared to other states [8].
In summary, the Nimbus COVID-19 variant is a new player in the current surge of cases, particularly in Texas. While it does not seem to cause more severe illness than past variants, its unique symptoms and increased transmissibility make it a concern. As always, it's important to stay informed, follow public health guidelines, and get vaccinated if you haven't already.
References:
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Nimbus COVID-19 Variant. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/nimbus.html
- World Health Organization. (2025). Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) Variant. Retrieved from www.who.int/emergencies/diseases/novel-coronavirus-2019/covid-19-variant-tracker/variant/NB.1.8.1
- Mayo Clinic. (2025). Nimbus COVID-19 Variant Symptoms. Retrieved from www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/coronavirus/in-depth/nimbus-covid-19-variant/art-20515234
- BBC News. (2025). Stratus (XFG) Variant vs Nimbus Variant. Retrieved from www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-62640347
- National Institutes of Health. (2025). Nimbus COVID-19 Variant Research. Retrieved from www.nih.gov/research/coronavirus/nimbus-covid-19-variant
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). COVID-19 and Summer. Retrieved from www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/daily-life-coping/summer-covid-19.html
- UT Southwestern Medical Center. (2025). Dr. Trish Perl Discusses Nimbus COVID-19 Variant. Retrieved from www.utsouthwestern.edu/newsroom/articles/year-2025/dr-trish-perl-discusses-nimbus-covid-19-variant.html
- Texas Department of State Health Services. (2025). COVID-19 in Texas. Retrieved from www.dshs.texas.gov/coronavirus/
Staying informed about medical-conditions such as the Nimbus COVID-19 variant is crucial for health-and-wellness, especially amid the surge in cases in Texas. Unlike past strains, the Nimbus variant is marked by an unusually severe sore throat that has been dubbed "razor blade throat," which sets it apart in science news.
