Woke up with a sore throat so raw it feels like you swallowed a cactus?

You’re not imagining it—and it could be a sign of something more than a common cold.

A fast-spreading COVID-19 variant, NB 1.8.1, is sweeping across the US and bringing with it a particularly brutal symptom: what people are calling razor throat.

What’s going on with COVID now?​

COVID-19 may have faded from the headlines, but it hasn’t disappeared—and the data proves it. The new NB 1.8.1 variant accounted for 37% of US COVID-19 cases between May 25 and June 7, according to the CDC. That’s a huge leap from late May, when it barely registered in national tracking.

It’s now close on the heels of Omicron LP.8.1, which still holds the top spot at 38%, down from 70% just a month earlier.

Translation: NB 1.8.1 didn’t just show up—it showed up with speed.

What is “Razor Throat?”​

It’s not a clinical term, but razor throat captures exactly how it feels: a sharp, burning pain in the throat. Reports from both China and the US suggest this symptom is more common—and more intense—with the NB 1.8.1 variant than with earlier strains.

Still, don’t panic. Dr. Tyler B. Evans, an infectious disease specialist, emphasizes that NB 1.8.1 doesn’t seem drastically different overall. The usual symptoms—sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue, and cough—are still the main indicators.

The updated COVID symptom checklist​

Here’s what the CDC still lists as the most common COVID-19 symptoms, regardless of variant:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Sore throat (sometimes described as “razor” sharp)
• Congestion or runny nose
• New loss of taste or smell
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Not everyone will experience severe symptoms—but those who are unvaccinated, immunocompromised, or have underlying conditions are at greater risk of complications like respiratory distress.

Why is NB 1.8.1 spreading so quickly?​

Viruses evolve constantly, and COVID-19 is no exception. Each new variant is a genetic experiment—some fail, others spread fast. NB 1.8.1 is clearly in the latter camp, with case numbers suggesting it's more contagious or better at evading immunity than some previous strains.

While there’s no sign yet that it causes more severe illness, its speed of spread is reason enough to stay alert.

Yes, razor throat sounds intense—but it’s more than just a buzzword. It’s a signal that COVID-19 is still evolving—and it’s evolving in ways that can catch us off guard. Fortunately, we have tools and knowledge we didn’t in 2020. Use them.

Stay ahead, stay smart—and don’t ignore a throat that feels like it’s on fire.

Read next:

• A new COVID variant is here—what to know about symptoms and vaccine changes
• New twist: China just made a surprising claim about where COVID-19 really came from!

Have you experienced razor throat or other unexpected COVID symptoms lately? How are you staying vigilant this summer? Share your stories, tips, and advice in the comments below. The GrayVine community learns best when we learn together.