As COVID-19 continues to evolve, a new strain is contributing to a rise in cases worldwide.
The XFG variant, also called Stratus, first appeared in Southeast Asia in January, according to the World Health Organization. Since then, it has spread to 38 countries, prompting the WHO to classify it as a “SARS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring.”
Coronavirus infections are increasing in nine U.S. states, including New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and both North and South Dakota, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
XFG, or Stratus, is now the predominant COVID-19 variant in the U.S. based on CDC wastewater data.
The Stratus variant follows the highly infectious Nimbus strain, which has been associated with severe “razor blade” sore throat symptoms, according to Stony Brook Medicine, the academic medical center of Stony Brook University in New York.
WHO reports that Stratus has evolved in ways that allow it to evade the immune system more effectively than Nimbus. This could make it harder for the body to fight off, particularly among unvaccinated individuals or those without prior infection.
However, Stony Brook Medicine notes that these changes are “marginal” and “should not be a concern for most people.” Most vaccinated individuals continue to experience mild cases of COVID-19.
Common symptoms include fatigue, fever, and a persistent dry cough. Stratus may also cause shortness of breath, chest tightness, sore or scratchy throat, headaches, body aches, upset stomach, nausea, brain fog, trouble concentrating, and, less commonly now, loss of taste or smell.
If symptoms develop, experts recommend seeking medical attention for diagnosis and treatment, which may include antiviral medications, at-home remedies, or over-the-counter drugs.
Individuals should consult a doctor if a high fever above 103°F persists for more than three days, or if symptoms worsen after initially improving, Stony Brook advises.
High-risk populations can reduce their risk of severe illness by staying up to date with vaccinations. Preventive measures include wearing masks in crowded or indoor spaces, ensuring good ventilation indoors, using air filters, frequent hand washing, avoiding close contact with others, and monitoring local COVID-19 levels before traveling.
