Ever felt a tad under the weather and wondered how to keep up your running routine in light of the latest “flu-like” COVID-19 variants? Don’t worry, you’re not alone!
With the emergence of new strains like the Cicada and NB.1.8.1/Nimbus variants as of April 2026, many runners are confronting symptoms that resemble both a cold and the flu. These variants often bring fever, cough, and fatigue, along with more unique symptoms such as a “razor-blade” throat and loss of taste or smell.
Here’s how you can maintain your running regimen while taking care of your health:
1. Listen to Your Body:
- If you’re dealing with light symptoms, like a stuffy nose without a fever, consider scaling back your runs. Gentle jogging can sometimes help clear nasal congestion and lift your spirits.
- If feverish, experiencing significant fatigue, or tackling a “razor-blade” throat, embrace rest instead of running.
2. Choose Short, Easy Runs: Restrict your runs to short, easy-paced sessions. Think of it as active recovery—keeping the body moving while allowing it to heal.
3. Support Your Immune System: Stay hydrated, nourish yourself with nutrient-rich foods, and remember to get adequate sleep. Your immune system does its best recovery work when you’re resting.
4. Have a Restorative Day: On days when running just isn’t possible, focus on restorative activities like gentle stretching or yoga.
Our bodies are incredibly resilient with the right support. If you need more tips on keeping your runs engaging and tailored to your needs, check out my comprehensive guide: Tips to Make Running Feel Easier.
Here’s to your health and running journey—stay safe and keep moving!
Do you want to improve your running? Check out the Run Professor
Disclaimer:
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