Razor corona; From symptoms to preventions of this new corona

In recent weeks, the term “coronavirus” has become hot in social networks and media; A colloquial epithet to describe a strain of Omicron (NB.1.8.1 or “Nimbus”) that is associated with a sharp, burning throat. Recent scientific reports and news media show that this strain is increasing in several countries, but the World Health Organization has evaluated it as a “variant under surveillance” with low added risk and emphasizes that existing vaccines are still effective in reducing severe disease.
In Iran, at the same time as the weather cools down, health authorities have announced the return of corona cases and the necessity of masks for vulnerable people in closed spaces; However, no signs of emergency or unusual lethality have been reported so far.

What is the sharp corona disease?

“Coronavirus” is the unofficial name of a pattern of covid-19 infection in which the main complaint of patients is a sharp, burning and scratchy throat when swallowing. Scientifically, we are dealing with a subspecies of the new Omicron Corona family that has a greater tendency to involve the upper respiratory tract (especially the pharynx) and this creates the sensation of “swallowing a razor” for some.

Corona symptoms sharp

Razor Corona is from the Omicron family and the pattern of symptoms is mostly similar to the recent colds/covids:

• fever
• Runny or stuffy nose
• cough (sometimes dry)
• Fatigue and body aches

But the pattern of sharp sore throat, a feeling like a scratch or a cut that intensifies when swallowing and is more prominent in the first days of the disease. Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea/diarrhea) and loss of appetite are also seen in some patients. Antigen test or PCR is recommended to confirm infection with new corona; Especially if the fever and cough are continuous with a sharp sore throat or if we are in high-risk groups (elderly, underlying diseases, pregnancy). Epidemiological data suggest that NB.1.8.1 has an increasing proportion of cases in several regions, but the clinical pattern remains mostly mild to moderate.

Complications of the new corona; How deadly is this disease?

In response, it should be said: “No more than the recent species of Omicron”. The WHO’s official assessment of NB.1.8.1 says the “globally additional risk is low” and that existing vaccination is expected to remain effective against severe outcomes. However, the possibility of contagion can be high and the number of infected can increase in seasonal waves; The data of several countries have also shown the relative growth of the share of this variant. Therefore, the strategic message is clear; The severity of the disease has not generally increased, but neglect can put pressure on the health system (especially for the elderly and at-risk). In Europe, at the same time as NB.1.8.1 observation, no signs of increased clinical deterioration have been reported.
Let’s not forget that Long COVID is still possible and adhering to respiratory hygiene and completing vaccination remains the best shield against long-term complications.

Doctors’ opinions about the new strain of Corona

A few Iranian infectious disease experts have emphasized based on their clinical experience that the corona virus is an unofficial name for a clinical pattern and it is not necessarily registered with the same name in the country’s medical system. The key points of their statements:

1. Fatality: Currently, there is no evidence of higher lethality compared to previous Omicrons in Iran, and most patients recover with home care.
2. Prohibited antibiotics! Because the cause of the disease is viral, the use of penicillin/cephalosporins (such as cefazolin) has no place in the initial treatment, and excessive use of antibiotics leads to microbial resistance and subsequent damage.
3. Pattern of symptoms: fever, cough, nasal congestion, sharp sore throat and sometimes gastrointestinal symptoms; In high-risk groups, there is a need for more careful monitoring.

Necessary recommendations for the prevention and treatment of acute sore throat

• Update the vaccine: take seriously the age/risk reminder schedule; Vaccination continues to be effective in preventing hospitalization and death.
• Mask in crowded and closed places: preferably N95/FFP2, especially for the elderly and the sick. Don’t forget proper ventilation.
• Respiratory hygiene: washing hands, avoiding touching the face, isolation for 5 to 7 days at the onset of symptoms and gradually returning to the community after consulting a doctor.
• Throat care: warm liquids, lukewarm salt water gargle, room air humidification, sound rest, avoiding smoke and polluted air.
• Safe symptomatic treatment: Common antipyretics/anti-inflammatories as per leaflet or as prescribed by doctor. In case of irritating dry cough, take advantage of valid solutions for treating dry cough (warm drink, honey for adults, over-the-counter medicines).
• Warnings: shortness of breath, persistent high fever, decreased level of consciousness, dehydration, chest pain, bruised lips and oxygen loss; Go to the emergency room immediately.
• Do not take antibiotics except for secondary bacterial infection with a doctor’s diagnosis.
• Follow-up of high-risk groups: elderly, pregnancy, immunodeficiency, heart/pulmonary/kidney disease; In case of infection, call a doctor quickly to evaluate antiviral treatment.
• Returning to activity: after the improvement of the systemic symptoms of the sharp corona virus and compliance with respiratory hygiene; Mild cough may remain for some time.

We agree that there is a new wave of conversations about razor blade corona because razor blade sore throat is really annoying; But the current scientific picture says we’re dealing with a variant underfoot that’s no more lethal than the past, although it can spin faster. Our strategy is clear; Up-to-date vaccination, compliance with mask and ventilation in high-risk situations, proper management of symptoms and avoiding self-medication with antibiotics. If the symptoms become severe or if we are in a high-risk group, consult a doctor. With pragmatism and the right information, we can turn public anxiety into effective decisions.

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