A new COVID-19 variant, dubbed “Razor Blade” due to its painful sore throat symptom, is spreading rapidly across the US, including South Carolina. According to Dr. Jon Carter of Roper Express Care, cases have increased sharply this month, rivaling those seen in May and June.
The Omicron family variant has been tracked nationwide for months but is now causing a surge in cases in the state. Patients are often surprised when they test positive, experiencing severe sore throats accompanied by flu-like symptoms that distinguish it from strep throat.
Carter advises anyone with sudden, severe sore throats and flu-like symptoms to take a home COVID-19 test. If negative, seek medical attention to rule out other illnesses like strep or mono.
As schools reopen, the risk of illness increases, but COVID precautions remain essential: stay home if sick, wear masks while recovering, and cough into your elbow. The CDC recommends staying up-to-date with COVID boosters to combat the virus.
While “COVID is likely never going away,” Carter says knowledge on managing it is crucial. Knowing when to get tested and seek help can make a significant difference in controlling the spread of the virus.
Source: https://www.live5news.com/2025/08/22/doctors-warn-razor-blade-covid-19-variant-causing-severe-sore-throat