COVID-19's New Throat Pain: What You Need to Know

The latest COVID-19 variant, Nimbus, is making waves with a particularly nasty symptom: a severe sore throat. This isn't just any sore throat; people are describing it as feeling like razor blades or acid burns. Why is this happening? Experts think it's because this variant targets the upper respiratory tract more than the lungs. But sore throat isn't the only symptom. COVID-19 can also cause fever, cough, fatigue, and even stomach issues like diarrhea. If you're feeling any of these, it's a good idea to take a COVID-19 test. Remember, symptoms can vary from person to person, so don't assume you're in the clear just because you don't have every symptom. If you do test positive, there are ways to ease that painful throat. Over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen can help, as can warm liquids like tea or soup. Staying hydrated and getting plenty of rest are also key. And if your symptoms are severe or last longer than a week, it's time to see a doctor. As for the current state of COVID-19 in the Bay Area, wastewater monitoring is one of the best ways to track the virus's spread. While there's no significant upward trend right now, it's still important to stay vigilant. The good news is that the latest COVID-19 vaccine is effective against the Nimbus variant. If you haven't gotten your shot yet, now is a great time to do so, especially if you're planning to travel. If you think you've been exposed to COVID-19, it's important to know that incubation times have shortened. You might start feeling symptoms just a few days after exposure. If you test negative early on but still feel sick, don't assume you're in the clear. Test again after a day or two. Finding free COVID-19 tests has become more challenging, but they're still out there. Check with local pharmacies, health centers, or your health insurance provider to see what options are available.