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Razor Blade variant detected in New Jersey
New surveillance data show Razor Blade variant spreading in New Jersey with broader U.S. signals from wastewater data.
New data show the Razor Blade variant is spreading in New Jersey, with broader U.S. signals from wastewater data and shifting dominance among variants.
Razor Blade COVID-19 Variant Spreads in New Jersey
The Razor Blade variant, also known as XFG, is circulating in the United States as health agencies monitor multiple strains. It was first detected in Southeast Asia in January and the earliest U.S. case appeared in March. By mid-June, XFG accounted for a small share of cases nationwide while Nimbus NB.1.8.1 remained the dominant lineage. CDC wastewater surveillance now lists XFG as the dominant variant circulating in the country.
In New Jersey, officials report a rise in COVID-19 activity even as overall emergency department visits stay low. The state health department said COVID-19 accounted for 0.7% of ED visits as of August 9, and wastewater testing across 22 utilities shows low viral activity as of August 14. Health officials cautioned that COVID-19 visits have increased in recent weeks despite the low overall numbers.
Key Takeaways
"COVID-19 cases are growing or likely to grow in 34 states."
CDC surveillance on national trend
"Wastewater surveillance data shows XFG is now the dominant variant circulating in the United States."
CDC wastewater data on variant dominance
"Emergency department visits associated with COVID-19 have increased in recent weeks."
NJ Department of Health observation
The story of Razor Blade illustrates how a newer variant can emerge while a more established one remains widespread. The reliance on wastewater data helps track spread, but it is not a perfect predictor of clinical cases. The current mix of XFG and Nimbus suggests ongoing transmission across regions, with indicators changing week by week. Officials must balance clear communication with reassurance, especially when testing patterns shift and ED visits remain a small fraction of total visits. The NJ numbers show vigilance is still needed, even when the baseline looks quiet.
Highlights
- COVID-19 cases are growing or likely to grow in 34 states.
- Wastewater surveillance data shows XFG is now the dominant variant circulating in the United States.
- Emergency department visits associated with COVID-19 have increased in recent weeks.
Public health risk from evolving variants in a shifting data landscape
The spread of a new variant with mixed signals across wastewater and clinical data raises concerns about public messaging, testing tactics, and resource planning. As cases rise in some areas and remain low in others, clear, accurate communication is essential to prevent panic and misinformation.
Ongoing surveillance will guide the next steps for New Jersey and the nation.
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