Despite a new COVID-19 variant making headway across the United States, Arizona maintains a relatively low number of cases. The Nimbus subvariant, identified by its distinct symptom of a painful throat, has become more prevalent.
As per the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Nimbus was responsible for about 5% of the COVID cases nationwide in early May. By the following month, it accounted for over a third of new infections.
The subvariant, often referred to as “razor blade throat,” has prompted individuals to seek medical assistance due to the severe throat pain associated with it. Dr. Joel Terriquez, who heads the Bureau of Infectious Disease at the Arizona Department of Health Services, noted the increase in medical visits but clarified that the strain does not seem to cause more severe illness.
Interestingly, while the Nimbus variant spreads, Arizona’s COVID-19 case numbers haven’t surged. The state recorded 608 cases last week, marking a substantial 72% decrease compared to the same period last year.
“That’s definitely a significant positive change on the number of cases, at least in the state of Arizona,” remarked Dr. Terriquez.
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