Stay Informed. Stay Protected. Centrum Pharmacy is here for your health.
A new and highly infectious strain of COVID-19, scientifically known as NB.1.8.1 and nicknamed ‘Nimbus’, has been detected in at least 13 U.S. states and is rapidly making up a significant portion of new cases worldwide. While the World Health Organization has labeled it a “variant under monitoring,” it already accounts for over one-third of U.S. cases and is spreading across 22 countries.
What Makes Nimbus Different?
Nimbus is an Omicron offshoot with a spike protein mutation that allows it to attach to human cells more efficiently — meaning it’s more transmissible than earlier variants. In lab studies, it has shown the strongest binding capacity yet to the receptors that allow the virus to enter our cells.
A notable symptom many patients are now reporting is “razor blade throat” — an intense sore throat that feels sharper and more painful than in previous COVID strains. Patients have described:
- Inability to sleep due to throat pain
- Difficulty swallowing or speaking
- Pain so severe it causes tears or distress
Though the CDC has not yet released formal tracking, global data sharing platforms (like GISAID) confirm its presence in states such as California, New York, New Jersey, and Hawaii. It is also circulating in Asia, with rising case numbers in India, Singapore, and Hong Kong.
Are Current Vaccines Still Effective?
Yes — current vaccines still help prevent severe illness and hospitalization, even if their ability to block infection from Nimbus is reduced. Updated vaccines are being developed and should be available this fall. Moderna’s latest version, mNEXSPIKE, is tailored to the Nimbus strain and will offer updated protection — especially for:
- Adults 65+
- Individuals aged 12–64 with underlying conditions (e.g. diabetes, heart disease, cancer, HIV, pregnancy, or obesity)
The FDA has recently limited COVID vaccine eligibility to high-risk populations — but Centrum Pharmacy will be ready to offer updated boosters as soon as they’re available.
What You Can Do Now
- Monitor symptoms carefully, especially sore throat, fever, fatigue, and difficulty swallowing.
- Mask up in crowded indoor spaces — especially if you’re immunocompromised or have travel plans.
- Avoid homemade remedies or unverified treatments. Consult your pharmacist or physician.
- Book a consult at Centrum Pharmacy for COVID testing, treatment guidance, and to check your vaccine status.
Looking Ahead: Summer 2025 Surge Expected
Epidemiologists expect a summer uptick in COVID cases, similar to previous years. Factors include:
- Waning immunity from past infections or boosters
- Increased indoor activity in air-conditioned spaces
- Spread of more contagious variants like Nimbus
“We may see an upswing this summer, but it is expected to be smaller than winter peaks.”
— Dr. Albert Ko, Yale School of Public Health
Have Questions? We’re Here to Help.
Centrum Pharmacy is your trusted community health partner. Whether you’re concerned about symptoms, vaccine eligibility, or treatment options, our pharmacists are ready to guide you.
Visit us in-store or call us to book a vaccine consult: contact us.
Message us online at CentrumPharmacy.com
Stay safe, stay informed, and let’s continue protecting our community — together.
Disclaimer: The medical information on this site is provided as an information resource only and is not to be used or relied on for any diagnostic or treatment purposes. This information does not substitute for professional diagnosis and treatment. Please do not initiate, modify, or discontinue any treatment, medication, or supplement solely based on this information. Always seek the advice of your healthcare provider first. Full Disclaimer.
