PAINFUL SYMPTOM: What to know about COVID variant NB.1.8.1 causing ‘razor blade throat’

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From ABC News: A newer COVID-19 variant may be causing a severe sore throat in some people who contract the infection.

The variant, known as NB.1.8.1, has been nicknamed by some as “razor blade throat” due to the painful symptom.

Data from the open global genome sequencing database GISAID shows the new variant has been detected in several states, including New York, Illinois, Texas and California.

Public health experts told ABC News there is no cause for serious concern yet because the virus does not appear to be more severe than previous variants and there are steps that can be taken to protect yourself.

The experts, of course, recommend that Americans get the updated COVID vaccine, up to twice a year for at risk individuals, but at least annually for most adults aged 18 and older. Parents of children between ages 6 months to 17 years are instructed to discuss the benefits of a vaccination with their health care provider.

Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of preventive medicine at Vanderbilt University Medical Center in Nashville, also suggests opening windows to increase ventilation, “wearing a mask in certain situations,” and avoiding crowded areas when incidents spike, typically in the late summer and early fall.

Dr. Peter McCullough, who has been bashed by the media as a spreader of misinformation and tossed from his profession for speaking out about the COVID vaccines, recommends “Nasal sprays and gargles” as “the best prevention measure.”

READ MORe AT ABCNews.GO.com.

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