Health and Me

Ishita Roy

World Health Day 2025: History, Theme, Importance, And Significance

World Health Day 2025: Importance, Significance, Theme, History

The World Health Organization (WHO) states that every year on April 7, the <span>World Health Day</span> is observed to draw attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948. 

This day was first proposed to be celebrated at the First Health Assembly in 1948, and ever since, from 1950, it has been observed. It marks the founding anniversary of the WHO, which a global platform that works on urgent health issues as well as promoting awareness. The WHO also addresses critical health concerns across the world and remains free from political influences. It also uses this day to draw international attention on health priorities. 

The WHO notes that when diplomats met to form the United Nations in 1945, one of the things they discussed was setting up a global health organization, this is how WHO's Constitution came into being from April 7, 1948. This is the date that we now celebrate every year as World Health Day. 

Each year, the WHO announces a specific theme for the World Health Day. This is to spotlight a key area of concern in the health sector. This year, the theme for 2025 is "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures". 

The WHO on its official X handle posted a collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the authorities of Hera to deliver an Integrated Health Program observing this year's theme:

This year's campaign and the theme focus on collaborating with governments and health bodies to invest in impactful initiatives that can reduce preventable deaths. It also aims to improve long-term well-being of mothers and newborn. 

<strong>The focus points of the theme are:</strong>

<strong>Helping every woman and baby survive and thrive: </strong>The WHO mentions that based on currently published estimates, close to 300,000 women lose their life due to pregnancy or childbirth each year. Whereas 2 billion babies die in their first month of life and 2 million are stillborn. This means roughly 1 preventable death every 7 seconds. 

<strong>Listening to women and supporting families:</strong> WHO mentions that women and families everywhere need high quality care that supports them physically and emotionally, before, during and after birth. Health systems thus must evolve to manage the health issues that impact maternal and newborn health. 

"The health of mothers and babies is the foundation of healthy families and communities, helping ensure hopeful futures for us all," notes WHO. 

<h4>Significance Of World Health Day</h4>

For the last five decades, the World Health Day, which celebrates the founding day of WHO has played an important role in highlighting key health issues. It has focused on various health issues including mental health and well-being, maternal and child health, and the growing impact of climate change on global health. 

The campaign also facilitates conversations and discourse around health, which can then promote awareness among people. This day therefore serves as a reminder to unite global efforts and direct attention towards building a healthier and safer communities around the world. 

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The World Health Organization (WHO) states that every year on April 7, the World Health Day is observed to draw attention to a specific health topic of concern to people all over the world. The date of 7 April marks the anniversary of the founding of WHO in 1948. History of World Health DayThis day was first proposed to be celebrated at the First Health Assembly in 1948, and ever since, from 1950, it has been observed. It marks the founding anniversary of the WHO, which a global platform that works on urgent health issues as well as promoting awareness. The WHO also addresses critical health concerns across the world and remains free from political influences. It also uses this day to draw international attention on health priorities. The WHO notes that when diplomats met to form the United Nations in 1945, one of the things they discussed was setting up a global health organization, this is how WHO's Constitution came into being from April 7, 1948. This is the date that we now celebrate every year as World Health Day. Theme Of World Health DayEach year, the WHO announces a specific theme for the World Health Day. This is to spotlight a key area of concern in the health sector. This year, the theme for 2025 is "Healthy Beginnings, Hopeful Futures". The WHO on its official X handle posted a collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the authorities of Hera to deliver an Integrated Health Program observing this year's theme:  As we approach World Health Day on April 7th, with the theme &quot;Healthy Beginnings for a Hopeful Future,&quot; the WHO, in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the authorities of Hera, delivering an Integrated Health Program through mass consultation activities. pic.twitter.com/YfD9rounJN&mdash; WHO Timor-Leste (@WHOTLS) April 4, 2025 ]]>This year's campaign and the theme focus on collaborating with governments and health bodies to invest in impactful initiatives that can reduce preventable deaths. It also aims to improve long-term well-being of mothers and newborn. The focus points of the theme are:Helping every woman and baby survive and thrive: The WHO mentions that based on currently published estimates, close to 300,000 women lose their life due to pregnancy or childbirth each year. Whereas 2 billion babies die in their first month of life and 2 million are stillborn. This means roughly 1 preventable death every 7 seconds. Listening to women and supporting families: WHO mentions that women and families everywhere need high quality care that supports them physically and emotionally, before, during and after birth. Health systems thus must evolve to manage the health issues that impact maternal and newborn health. "The health of mothers and babies is the foundation of healthy families and communities, helping ensure hopeful futures for us all," notes WHO. Significance Of World Health DayFor the last five decades, the World Health Day, which celebrates the founding day of WHO has played an important role in highlighting key health issues. It has focused on various health issues including mental health and well-being, maternal and child health, and the growing impact of climate change on global health. The campaign also facilitates conversations and discourse around health, which can then promote awareness among people. This day therefore serves as a reminder to unite global efforts and direct attention towards building a healthier and safer communities around the world. 

world health day 2025: history, theme, importance, and significance

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Dr. David Geier, a controversial orthopedic surgeon and known vaccine skeptic, is attempting to revisit long-debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Recently hired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Geier is now reviewing historical safety data to investigate whether government agencies concealed crucial information.

<h4>Accessing <span rel="noindex">CDC</span>'s Vaccine Safety Database</h4>

Geier is reportedly seeking access to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a repository of vaccine safety records from millions of patients. The VSD is maintained by a dozen major healthcare systems, each controlling its own data. Full access has always been tightly controlled due to privacy and misuse concerns.

Geier previously accessed the database in 2004 and 2006. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, CDC officials revoked his access both times, alleging he had misrepresented his research intentions.

Despite this, Geier is once again pushing to analyze the data. It remains unclear if access has been granted. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that the department intends to take a “fresh look at all data including old data,” and emphasized that they would “follow the science—wherever it leads.”

<h4>Scientific Community Raises Concerns</h4>

The scientific and public health communities have expressed concern over Geier's involvement. “He has no record in the scientific community of doing valid work,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, former director of the CDC’s immunization program.

Geier and his late father, geneticist Mark Geier, have long promoted the theory that vaccines cause autism—an idea widely discredited by the medical community. The pair also introduced a controversial treatment using hormone-blocking drugs, which resulted in the revocation of Mark Geier’s medical license and disciplinary actions against David Geier for practicing medicine without a license.

At a 2015 conference, Geier defended his position, claiming the scientific community dismisses their findings without proper consideration. “They think that [the vaccine's link to autism has] been completely debunked,” he said at the time.

<h4>Kennedy's Role and the Larger Context</h4>

Robert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccine mandates, has clarified that Geier will not lead autism research. Instead, his focus will be on identifying any possibly overlooked or hidden data within the CDC’s database.

“There has been a lot of monkey business with the VSD,” Kennedy stated in a previous congressional appearance.

Kennedy, who once authored a now-retracted Rolling Stone article alleging a vaccine-autism cover-up, cited a 2000 CDC conference that explored preliminary data on thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once used in vaccines. Though early findings prompted questions, later analysis confirmed no link between thimerosal and autism. Thimerosal was removed from most vaccines in 2001, and final results were published in 2003.

<h4>Exploring Autism Causes and Rising Rates</h4>

While Geier conducts his review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is separately examining rising autism rates. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 31 eight-year-olds in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism in 2022. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of better diagnostic methods, genetic factors, and increased awareness.

The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also plans to fund research into other possible causes, such as environmental toxins and diet. Meanwhile, Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit formerly led by Kennedy, is hosting an online event this week centered on what it calls the “autism cover-up.”

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Dr. David Geier, a controversial orthopedic surgeon and known vaccine skeptic, is attempting to revisit long-debunked claims linking vaccines to autism. Recently hired by Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Geier is now reviewing historical safety data to investigate whether government agencies concealed crucial information.Accessing CDC's Vaccine Safety DatabaseGeier is reportedly seeking access to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s (CDC) Vaccine Safety Datalink (VSD), a repository of vaccine safety records from millions of patients. The VSD is maintained by a dozen major healthcare systems, each controlling its own data. Full access has always been tightly controlled due to privacy and misuse concerns.Geier previously accessed the database in 2004 and 2006. However, according to The Wall Street Journal, CDC officials revoked his access both times, alleging he had misrepresented his research intentions.Despite this, Geier is once again pushing to analyze the data. It remains unclear if access has been granted. A spokesperson for the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) stated that the department intends to take a “fresh look at all data including old data,” and emphasized that they would “follow the science—wherever it leads.”Scientific Community Raises ConcernsThe scientific and public health communities have expressed concern over Geier's involvement. “He has no record in the scientific community of doing valid work,” said Dr. Walter Orenstein, former director of the CDC’s immunization program.Geier and his late father, geneticist Mark Geier, have long promoted the theory that vaccines cause autism—an idea widely discredited by the medical community. The pair also introduced a controversial treatment using hormone-blocking drugs, which resulted in the revocation of Mark Geier’s medical license and disciplinary actions against David Geier for practicing medicine without a license.At a 2015 conference, Geier defended his position, claiming the scientific community dismisses their findings without proper consideration. “They think that [the vaccine's link to autism has] been completely debunked,” he said at the time.Kennedy's Role and the Larger ContextRobert F. Kennedy Jr., a vocal critic of vaccine mandates, has clarified that Geier will not lead autism research. Instead, his focus will be on identifying any possibly overlooked or hidden data within the CDC’s database.“There has been a lot of monkey business with the VSD,” Kennedy stated in a previous congressional appearance.Kennedy, who once authored a now-retracted Rolling Stone article alleging a vaccine-autism cover-up, cited a 2000 CDC conference that explored preliminary data on thimerosal—a mercury-based preservative once used in vaccines. Though early findings prompted questions, later analysis confirmed no link between thimerosal and autism. Thimerosal was removed from most vaccines in 2001, and final results were published in 2003.Exploring Autism Causes and Rising RatesWhile Geier conducts his review, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services is separately examining rising autism rates. The CDC now estimates that 1 in 31 eight-year-olds in the U.S. were diagnosed with autism in 2022. Experts attribute the increase to a combination of better diagnostic methods, genetic factors, and increased awareness.The National Institutes of Health (NIH) also plans to fund research into other possible causes, such as environmental toxins and diet. Meanwhile, Children's Health Defense, a nonprofit formerly led by Kennedy, is hosting an online event this week centered on what it calls the “autism cover-up.”

rfk hires autism skeptic to look into cdc autism data

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Over 50 Sick, 7 Hospitalized In Canada Due To Salmonella Infections Linked To Contaminated Recalled Salami

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The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed that the illnesses are associated with recalled salami products distributed in various provinces, triggering immediate public health advisories, health authorities are investigating a salmonella outbreak that has already infected over 50 individuals and resulted in seven hospitalizations.

The PHAC states that the outbreak was attributed to three particular salami products sold under two product names: Rea's Genoa Salami Sweet and Genoa Salami Hot, and Bona's Mild Genova Salami. All of these were sold and distributed within Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba through different locations such as grocery stores, butcher shops, restaurants, cafes, and specialty markets.

Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) released a notice of recall on June 10, after increased numbers of reported cases were reported between mid-April to late May 2025. Up to June 11, 57 individuals have been confirmed ill, 44 in Alberta and 13 in Ontario. PHAC indicates additional cases may emerge, referencing an infective-to-report window of up to 45 days. 

<h2>Where Was the Salami Contaminated?</h2>

Examinations find that most of the infected people had eaten the salami in pre-cut sandwiches or deli counter portions, highlighting the common distribution and consumption of the recalled items. The CFIA has called on consumers to inspect their refrigerators and dispose of any impacted items or bring them back to the place of purchase.

<h2>What is a Salmonella Infections?</h2>

Salmonella is a bacterium that can result in a serious infection of the gastrointestinal tract called salmonellosis. While most individuals recover from it within four to seven days without any medical treatment, susceptible groups of people like children, pregnant women, elderly, and immunocompromised patients can develop serious complications.

The symptoms occur within six to 72 hours of consumption and are as follows:

<ul><li>Severe fever</li><li>Chills</li><li>Diarrhea</li><li>Vomiting</li><li>Abdominal cramps</li><li>Headaches</li><li>Nausea</li></ul>

In certain instances, the salmonella infection can have more serious health effects, such as bloodstream infection and chronic joint discomfort, or reactive arthritis.

Of the 57 confirmed cases, approximately 67% are male and range in age from less than one year to over 100 years old. Seven patients have been hospitalized, with no reported deaths yet.

PHAC emphasizes that not everyone exposed to salmonella will become sick, and the severity of symptoms can vary. Nonetheless, any suspected case should be reported immediately to local health authorities.

<h2>Public Health Advisory and Consumer Safety Measures</h2>

The CFIA stresses that food contaminated with salmonella may not exhibit any visible signs of spoilage, making vigilance all the more critical. Consumers are strongly advised to:

<ul><li>Dispose of the recalled products immediately</li><li>Avoid eating ready-to-eat sandwiches or deli foods if the origin of salami is not known</li><li>Follow safe food handling practices at home, such as proper storage and washing hands</li></ul>

If you believe a product is contaminated or want to file a food safety complaint, you can file it through the CFIA's online reporting portal or by filing a consumer product incident report.

PHAC and CFIA are closely tracking the outbreak and working cooperatively with provincial health ministries and impacted businesses to prevent further spread. The agencies are also backtracking along the supply chain to identify the source of contamination.

Updates will be made as the investigation progresses on the CFIA and PHAC websites. Consumers should remain updated and adhere to public health guidelines to reduce risk.

This incident is a grim reminder of the extreme need for stringent food safety procedures and openness in food production and distribution. Most people who contract salmonellosis will recover without treatment, but the outbreak highlights the seriousness of foodborne diseases and the need for information awareness.

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The Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) confirmed that the illnesses are associated with recalled salami products distributed in various provinces, triggering immediate public health advisories, health authorities are investigating a salmonella outbreak that has already infected over 50 individuals and resulted in seven hospitalizations.The PHAC states that the outbreak was attributed to three particular salami products sold under two product names: Rea's Genoa Salami Sweet and Genoa Salami Hot, and Bona's Mild Genova Salami. All of these were sold and distributed within Ontario, Alberta, and Manitoba through different locations such as grocery stores, butcher shops, restaurants, cafes, and specialty markets.Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) released a notice of recall on June 10, after increased numbers of reported cases were reported between mid-April to late May 2025. Up to June 11, 57 individuals have been confirmed ill, 44 in Alberta and 13 in Ontario. PHAC indicates additional cases may emerge, referencing an infective-to-report window of up to 45 days. Where Was the Salami Contaminated?Examinations find that most of the infected people had eaten the salami in pre-cut sandwiches or deli counter portions, highlighting the common distribution and consumption of the recalled items. The CFIA has called on consumers to inspect their refrigerators and dispose of any impacted items or bring them back to the place of purchase.What is a Salmonella Infections?Salmonella is a bacterium that can result in a serious infection of the gastrointestinal tract called salmonellosis. While most individuals recover from it within four to seven days without any medical treatment, susceptible groups of people like children, pregnant women, elderly, and immunocompromised patients can develop serious complications.The symptoms occur within six to 72 hours of consumption and are as follows:Severe feverChillsDiarrheaVomitingAbdominal crampsHeadachesNauseaIn certain instances, the salmonella infection can have more serious health effects, such as bloodstream infection and chronic joint discomfort, or reactive arthritis.Of the 57 confirmed cases, approximately 67% are male and range in age from less than one year to over 100 years old. Seven patients have been hospitalized, with no reported deaths yet.PHAC emphasizes that not everyone exposed to salmonella will become sick, and the severity of symptoms can vary. Nonetheless, any suspected case should be reported immediately to local health authorities.Public Health Advisory and Consumer Safety MeasuresThe CFIA stresses that food contaminated with salmonella may not exhibit any visible signs of spoilage, making vigilance all the more critical. Consumers are strongly advised to:Dispose of the recalled products immediatelyAvoid eating ready-to-eat sandwiches or deli foods if the origin of salami is not knownFollow safe food handling practices at home, such as proper storage and washing handsIf you believe a product is contaminated or want to file a food safety complaint, you can file it through the CFIA's online reporting portal or by filing a consumer product incident report.PHAC and CFIA are closely tracking the outbreak and working cooperatively with provincial health ministries and impacted businesses to prevent further spread. The agencies are also backtracking along the supply chain to identify the source of contamination.Updates will be made as the investigation progresses on the CFIA and PHAC websites. Consumers should remain updated and adhere to public health guidelines to reduce risk.This incident is a grim reminder of the extreme need for stringent food safety procedures and openness in food production and distribution. Most people who contract salmonellosis will recover without treatment, but the outbreak highlights the seriousness of foodborne diseases and the need for information awareness.

over 50 sick, 7 hospitalized in canada due to salmonella infections linked to contaminated recalled salami

COVID NB.1.8.1 Variant Triggers Extreme Throat Pain That Feels Like Swallowing 'Razor Blades

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Just when the world seemed to settle into a post-pandemic rhythm, a new COVID-19 variant—NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus—is gaining ground and rattling global health authorities. With its hallmark symptom being an agonizing sore throat that patients describe as feeling like “swallowing razor blades,” the variant has already led to a noticeable rise in infections across several countries.

First identified in early 2025, this Omicron subvariant is making headlines as cases spike across Asia and begin to surface in North America, Europe, and Australia as well. With international mobility returning to pre-pandemic levels, global health experts are closely monitoring its trajectory.

NB.1.8.1 is a mutated form of the Omicron variant, it is continuing the trend of subvariants that are more transmissible but, so far, not necessarily more severe. It was first detected and quickly spread through densely populated regions of China and Hong Kong.

By late April, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that NB.1.8.1 accounted for approximately 10.7% of globally submitted genomic sequences—up from just 2.5% a month earlier. This rapid expansion prompted the WHO to designate it as a “variant under monitoring” on May 23.

What sets NB.1.8.1 or Nimbus, apart from earlier COVID-19 variants is its unique set of symptoms, most notably the intense sore throat.

Patients across various countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, and the UK, have described a "razor blade" sensation in the throat, far more painful than the sore throats associated with previous variants.

Virologists, including Australia’s Dr. Lara Herrero of Griffith University, believe this new variant has a higher transmission potential and increased immune evasion capabilities, meaning it can more easily bypass natural or vaccine-induced immunity, contributing to its rapid spread.

<h2>Key Symptoms of <span rel="noindex">New COVID Variant</span> NB.1.8.1 To What to Watch For</h2>

While the classic COVID symptoms like fever and fatigue remain present, NB.1.8.1 adds a painful twist to the mix. Here’s what patients have been reporting:

<ul><li>Severe sore throat described as 'swallowing razor blades'</li><li>Fatigue and body aches</li><li>Mild to moderate fever</li><li>Congestion and runny nose</li><li>Persistent mild cough</li><li>Gastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and nausea in some cases</li></ul>

Healthcare professionals caution that these symptoms can be confused with the flu or seasonal allergies, making early detection more challenging without testing.

<h2>How Dangerous Is New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1?</h2>

Despite its painful symptoms and swift spread, current data suggests that NB.1.8.1 is not more deadly than prior variants. The WHO has emphasized that existing COVID-19 vaccines remain effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalization caused by this strain.

A pre-print study (still pending peer review) also indicates that although the variant demonstrates high immune evasion, the severity of illness appears consistent with previous Omicron variants. That said, under-testing in many parts of the world means the actual scale of spread may be underreported.

Several factors contribute to the rise in <span>COVID cases</span> globally:

Reduced testing and complacency: Fewer people are getting tested for COVID-19 compared to the height of the pandemic, making tracking more difficult.

Seasonal mobility: Increased travel and fewer restrictions may be aiding the variant’s spread.

Vaccine fatigue and rollback of mandates: Recent policy changes, such as the rollback of vaccine recommendations for children and pregnant women in the U.S., could affect future immunization rates.

Dr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Health and Human Services Secretary under the Trump administration, recently stated a controversial shift in vaccine recommendations, despite evidence supporting vaccination—especially for pregnant women—to protect both mother and baby.

Health experts explain that COVID-19 vaccines continue to be a first and most important aspect of defense and protection, including against NB.1.8.1. There is no current evidence that the variant undermines vaccine effectiveness against severe illness.

The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also urges pregnant women to stay up to date on their COVID vaccinations, citing strong data showing that vaccinated mothers pass antibodies to their newborns, offering early protection.

While NB.1.8.1 isn’t considered a “variant of concern” yet, its rapid rise in numbers and severe sore throat symptoms have placed it on the global radar. The good news is that existing public health measures—vaccination, hygiene, mask-wearing in high-risk settings—still work.

Individuals who experience persistent throat pain, especially if accompanied by other flu-like symptoms, are advised to get tested and isolate as necessary.

The present guidance from public health officials mirrors what the international community has collectively embraced as received wisdom:

<ul><li>Keep practicing proper hand hygiene.</li><li>Use masks in indoor, poorly ventilated, or congested settings.</li><li>Self-isolate and get tested if having cold-like symptoms.</li><li>Stay home and refrain from unnecessary social contacts if ill.</li><li></li></ul>The emergence of NB.1.8.1 is a sharp reminder that COVID-19 is far from over. While it may no longer dominate headlines like it did during the global crisis, its ability to mutate and spread remains potent.

If your sore throat feels unusually painful—like swallowing glass or razor blades, it might be time to test, mask up, and protect those around you.

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Just when the world seemed to settle into a post-pandemic rhythm, a new COVID-19 variant—NB.1.8.1, nicknamed Nimbus—is gaining ground and rattling global health authorities. With its hallmark symptom being an agonizing sore throat that patients describe as feeling like “swallowing razor blades,” the variant has already led to a noticeable rise in infections across several countries.First identified in early 2025, this Omicron subvariant is making headlines as cases spike across Asia and begin to surface in North America, Europe, and Australia as well. With international mobility returning to pre-pandemic levels, global health experts are closely monitoring its trajectory.NB.1.8.1 is a mutated form of the Omicron variant, it is continuing the trend of subvariants that are more transmissible but, so far, not necessarily more severe. It was first detected and quickly spread through densely populated regions of China and Hong Kong.By late April, the World Health Organization (WHO) reported that NB.1.8.1 accounted for approximately 10.7% of globally submitted genomic sequences—up from just 2.5% a month earlier. This rapid expansion prompted the WHO to designate it as a “variant under monitoring” on May 23.What Makes NB.1.8.1 Different?What sets NB.1.8.1 or Nimbus, apart from earlier COVID-19 variants is its unique set of symptoms, most notably the intense sore throat.Patients across various countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, and the UK, have described a "razor blade" sensation in the throat, far more painful than the sore throats associated with previous variants.Virologists, including Australia’s Dr. Lara Herrero of Griffith University, believe this new variant has a higher transmission potential and increased immune evasion capabilities, meaning it can more easily bypass natural or vaccine-induced immunity, contributing to its rapid spread.Key Symptoms of New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1 To What to Watch ForWhile the classic COVID symptoms like fever and fatigue remain present, NB.1.8.1 adds a painful twist to the mix. Here’s what patients have been reporting:Severe sore throat described as 'swallowing razor blades'Fatigue and body achesMild to moderate feverCongestion and runny nosePersistent mild coughGastrointestinal issues such as diarrhea and nausea in some casesHealthcare professionals caution that these symptoms can be confused with the flu or seasonal allergies, making early detection more challenging without testing.How Dangerous Is New COVID Variant NB.1.8.1?Despite its painful symptoms and swift spread, current data suggests that NB.1.8.1 is not more deadly than prior variants. The WHO has emphasized that existing COVID-19 vaccines remain effective at preventing severe disease and hospitalization caused by this strain.A pre-print study (still pending peer review) also indicates that although the variant demonstrates high immune evasion, the severity of illness appears consistent with previous Omicron variants. That said, under-testing in many parts of the world means the actual scale of spread may be underreported.Several factors contribute to the rise in COVID cases globally:Reduced testing and complacency: Fewer people are getting tested for COVID-19 compared to the height of the pandemic, making tracking more difficult.Seasonal mobility: Increased travel and fewer restrictions may be aiding the variant’s spread.Vaccine fatigue and rollback of mandates: Recent policy changes, such as the rollback of vaccine recommendations for children and pregnant women in the U.S., could affect future immunization rates.Dr. Robert F. Kennedy Jr., Health and Human Services Secretary under the Trump administration, recently stated a controversial shift in vaccine recommendations, despite evidence supporting vaccination—especially for pregnant women—to protect both mother and baby.How To Stay Safe and Protected?Health experts explain that COVID-19 vaccines continue to be a first and most important aspect of defense and protection, including against NB.1.8.1. There is no current evidence that the variant undermines vaccine effectiveness against severe illness.The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) also urges pregnant women to stay up to date on their COVID vaccinations, citing strong data showing that vaccinated mothers pass antibodies to their newborns, offering early protection.While NB.1.8.1 isn’t considered a “variant of concern” yet, its rapid rise in numbers and severe sore throat symptoms have placed it on the global radar. The good news is that existing public health measures—vaccination, hygiene, mask-wearing in high-risk settings—still work.Individuals who experience persistent throat pain, especially if accompanied by other flu-like symptoms, are advised to get tested and isolate as necessary.The present guidance from public health officials mirrors what the international community has collectively embraced as received wisdom:Keep practicing proper hand hygiene.Use masks in indoor, poorly ventilated, or congested settings.Self-isolate and get tested if having cold-like symptoms.Stay home and refrain from unnecessary social contacts if ill.The emergence of NB.1.8.1 is a sharp reminder that COVID-19 is far from over. While it may no longer dominate headlines like it did during the global crisis, its ability to mutate and spread remains potent.If your sore throat feels unusually painful—like swallowing glass or razor blades, it might be time to test, mask up, and protect those around you.

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