Once more, Covid-19 is in the news as cases start to increase in several areas of the country. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that infections are rising or are expected to rise in at least 25 states, with the greatest increases occurring in the South, Southeast, and West Coast. Based on the CDC's wastewater data, overall Covid activity has increased from very low levels just a week ago, though it is still regarded as low. In places like the Pacific Northwest and the Southeast, emergency rooms are seeing more patients with COVID, and currently have the highest patient numbers since February or March. This is something to watch out for since experts predict it may be the beginning of a summer wave.

The Covid-19 summer wave in the United States

Health officials have been keeping an eye on the seasonal trend that has caused the recent increase in COVID-19 cases in the United States. The CDC now reports that Covid-19 appears to have a biannual trend, with peaks occurring twice annually: once in the summer (July to September) and once in the winter (December to February). Scientists believe that the virus's ongoing mutations may cause this pattern to persist. The virus is able to spread more easily because one of its essential components, known as the S1 region on the spike protein, is continuously changing. These seasonal waves are predicted to remain as long as the virus continues to evolve, according to specialists.

What you should know about the "Razor Blade Throat" Covid variant

The CDC reports that Covid is reappearing after months of low transmission and few cases due to poor immunity and the emergence of new variants, particularly the Nimbus strain known as NB.1.8.1. Officially designated NB.1.8.1 but known as "Nimbus," the variant has been associated with a particularly agonizing symptom—a terrible sore throat that some sufferers have described as "razor blades." Even though national figures remain low overall, states like New Mexico, Georgia, Kentucky, and Virginia have lately reported notable rises in Covid-related visits.

This novel form is a mutation of Omicron and was initially discovered earlier this year in China and certain regions of Asia, where it caused an increase in cases. Airport screenings in the United States initially identified it in March, and it has since been discovered in more than half of the states. It had overtaken other variants to become the most prevalent strain in the nation by July.

Covid activity is still quite low across the country, but it is beginning to increase. The CDC reports a test positivity rate of 3.1 percent as of July 9, which is a slight but significant increase from the previous week.

In the United States, how bad is the Covid-19 epidemic?

The CDC reports that as of June 2025, the new Covid-19 Nimbus variant has become the dominant strain in the United States, accounting for approximately 43% of cases. A severe, agonizing sore throat is one of the numerous symptoms of Covid, according to those who have contracted the virus. Other symptoms include fever, muscle pain, runny nose, fatigue, congestion, a mild cough, and even a loss of taste or smell.

According to Dr. Harish Chafle, senior consultant intensivist, chest physician, bronchoscopist, and sleep disorders expert, the majority of Nimbus-related cases have been moderate to mild.

Nonetheless, similar to prior Omicron variations, Nimbus has genetic changes that may allow it to spread more easily or evade some of the current immunity from prior illness or vaccination. It originated from a recombinant Omicron subvariant and has several spike protein mutations that may impact its transmissibility.

The World Health Organization claims that Nimbus poses a low risk to the world and that there is no proof that it causes any worse symptoms than earlier strains. However, because of its widespread transmission around the world, it is best to exercise caution and stay informed.

How can I protect myself against the coronavirus?

Wash your hands frequently and refrain from touching your face, especially while you're out and about, to protect yourself against Covid-19. It's best to stay home and get some sleep if you're feeling ill or experiencing symptoms such as a cough or sore throat. Wearing a mask in a crowded or indoor environment can help prevent you from contracting the virus, particularly if there is an increase in cases in your area. maintaining current knowledge of Covid-19 vaccines, including boosters. Additionally, remember to maintain proper ventilation in rooms and seek medical advice if you exhibit any symptoms.

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