Recent reports suggest that one of the symptoms of the new COVID-19 variant NB.1.8.1 is stabbing throat pain, which some have compared to swallowing razor blades. As the description of “razor blade throat” circulated online in the U.S., many social media users dismissed it as fearmongering, suggesting that news coverage of COVID-19 variants is part of a plot to bring back lockdowns. Some users took the opportunity to encourage people to stay up to date on COVID-19 vaccination, while others promoted fake remedies and conspiracy theories about vaccine ingredients. Several people expressed concern about the availability of COVID-19 vaccines and the reliability of vaccine guidance under the current administration.
Recommendation
Online minimization of the symptoms and circulation of a new COVID-19 variant may make people less likely to get vaccinated and take other precautions to protect themselves and their families. Health communicators may explain that the COVID-19 variant Nimbus may cause an increase in cases this summer. Messaging may emphasize that research indicates that the current COVID-19 vaccines protect against Nimbus and other similar variants.
Fact-checking sources: Very Well Health, Health.com
