Coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) cases are increasing in some parts of California due to the emergence of a new and highly contagious subvariant, known as Nimbus. It can cause razor blade throat symptoms. As per the description of the patient, it feels like throats are studded with razor blades. It is linked with COVID-19 in the U.S. The Nimbus subvariant has led to COVID-19 in other countries, with an increased concern about Trump’s appointees, which makes the vaccine availability more difficult.
COVID-19 has caused a shift in the symptom presentation from earlier hallmark symptoms, such as loss of smell and taste, to a more intense sore throat. Nimbus is a part of the Omicron family. It is a more prevalent coronavirus subvariant. It is affecting 37% of the COVID-19 samples nationwide over the past two weeks, up to June 7, 2025. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), another subvariant, designated as LP.8.1, has also become more prevalent over the past few months.
The Nimbus subvariant has been spreading rapidly in California since May 2025. It is now comprising approximately 55% of the circulating viral strains. The statewide test positivity rate for COVID-19 rose to 2.8% in California, up from 1.1% in March. The increased coronavirus levels also being detected in the wastewater, along with the positive test rate, are indicators of elevated viral activity. The Southern California wastewater system reported mild to high levels of virus activity. Santa Barbara watersheds also showed mild to high levels, while Los Angeles and Ventura counties recorded low to mild levels of activity. San Bernardino reported high activity.
The Los Angeles County Department of Public Health reported that virus levels in wastewater increased by 13% in May. The positive rate of COVID-19 tests increased by 5%, indicating an increase in infections during the current week. The number of emergency room visits for COVID-19 remains low.
The levels of wastewater are mild in California. The California Department of Public Health suggested that seasonal increases in disease levels and vaccination rates are expected to remain effective against the new variant.
According to the California Department of Public Health, the current wastewater levels are mild, and seasonal fluctuations are expected. The department maintains that immunizations remain effective against the new subvariant. According to the Make America Healthy Again Commission, it is necessary to reassess the nation’s childhood vaccine schedule, monitor ultra-processed foods, and study the pesticides used in commercial farming.
The recent elimination of vaccine advisory experts has severely damaged the US vaccination program and removed the institutional experts, stabilizing the necessity for long-term effectiveness under the Kennedy administration. The new immunization committee will hold a vote on recommendations for various vaccinations, including RSV, COVID-19, meningococcal, and HPV. The governors of Oregon, Washington, and California have publicly criticized these federal actions, warning they threaten public health by undermining expert advice.
The CDC director has endorsed the advisory committee’s recommendations on the vaccinations, but the American Academy of Pediatrics strongly condemned the dismissal of vaccine advisors. They view it as part of a broader campaign to suppress independent medical opinion and erode public confidence in essential immunizations. These changes could potentially jeopardize insurance coverage and vaccine access, especially for low-income populations.
Public health agencies in California, Oregon, and Washington continue to recommend COVID-19 vaccination for all individuals aged 6 months and older, with a particular emphasis on protecting vulnerable groups. But it’s still unclear if some vaccinations will become obsolete or if the federal government will reduce the distribution of some vaccines to underprivileged children.
Reference: Lin II RG. COVID “razor blade throat” rises as new subvariant spreads in California. Los Angeles Times. Published June 16, 2025. Accessed June 20, 2025. COVID ‘razor blade throat’ rises as new subvariant spreads in California – Los Angeles Times
