‘Razor blade throat’: The new COVID-19 variant, updates on Ghana’s infection data
GHS confirms cases at University of Ghana, urges public to stay alert
The World Health Organization (WHO) has announced the discovery of a new COVID-19 variant named NB.1.8.1, which many people have started calling the “razor blade throat” variant. This nickname comes from the sharp sore throat symptom that some people experience after getting infected.
According to WHO, the new variant is linked to an older lineage known as XDV.1.5.1. The first known sample of NB.1.8.1 was taken in January 2025. By mid-May 2025, the virus had spread to at least 22 countries, with over 518 samples submitted to global virus-tracking databases. It now accounts for more than 10% of all global cases in the last week of April 2025.
Symptoms and Vaccine Effectiveness
NB.1.8.1 may sound scary, especially with the “razor blade throat” nickname, but health experts say it does not cause more serious illness than the earlier variants of COVID-19.
The main symptom that makes it stand out is a very painful sore throat, which some patients say feels like “swallowing razor blades.”
The good news is that WHO has confirmed that the current COVID-19 vaccines still work well against this new variant. The vaccines can still protect against both mild and severe symptoms.
COVID-19 Resurgence in Ghana – UG Reports Over 100 Cases
In Ghana, the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the University of Ghana have raised concern about a new rise in COVID-19 cases, especially among university students.
As of July 1, 2025, the University of Ghana had recorded:
316 suspected cases
107 confirmed COVID-19 cases
No hospitalisations or deaths reported
Health Minister Kwabena Mintah Akandoh addressed Parliament and gave an update:
“Mr. Speaker, 316 suspected cases have been reported, and 107 are confirmed COVID-19 cases. Thankfully, there are no hospitalisations and no deaths. The outbreak is limited to the university, and hasn’t spread to the rest of Accra or the country. All confirmed cases are recovering well.”
Common COVID-19 Symptoms
Whether it’s the new NB.1.8.1 variant or the older ones, COVID-19 can present with different symptoms. These include:
Fever and chills
Sore throat (especially sharp or painful)
Muscle pain, tiredness, or heavy arms/legs
Blocked or runny nose, sneezing
Headache or sore eyes
Dizziness or hoarse voice
Cough, chest pain, or difficulty breathing
Numbness or tingling in body
Loss of appetite, nausea, or diarrhoea
Loss or change in smell or taste
Trouble sleeping
Most people start feeling symptoms 5 to 6 days after catching the virus, and symptoms can last for up to 2 weeks.
How to Stay Safe – WHO and GHS Advice
To protect yourself and others from COVID-19, health authorities recommend the following:
Get vaccinated – COVID-19 vaccines are still effective.
Avoid crowded places – Maintain physical distance.
Wear a mask – Especially if you’re unwell or in crowded indoor spaces.
Wash your hands regularly – Use soap and water or an alcohol-based hand rub.
Cough/sneeze into your elbow or tissue – Dispose of tissues immediately.
Self-isolate – If you develop symptoms or test positive.
Final Message to Ghanaians
Though this new variant sounds uncomfortable, there’s no need to panic. Ghana’s health authorities are monitoring the situation, and steps are being taken to stop the spread.
Let’s all do our part. Follow the health protocols, report symptoms early, and avoid misinformation. Together, we can stay ahead of this new variant and protect our communities.