A new COVID strain has become increasingly more common in the U.S. in recent weeks and can cause a painful symptom that some are calling "razor blade throat." COVID variant, NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus,

The COVID-19 variant that may be driving a recent rise in cases in some parts of the world has earned a new nickname: “razor blade throat” COVID. That's because the variant — NB.1.8.1. or “Nimbus” — may cause painful sore throats.

Painful sore throats have been a common symptom of previous COVID strains, but Nimbus is gaining attention for what some describe as excruciating pain. Patients have likened the sensation to swallowing razor blades or shards of glass. Other symptoms include fatigue, cough, fever, muscle aches and congestion.