New COVID-19 Variant Stratus Spreading In US: Here's What To Watch For
A new COVID-19 variant, nicknamed 'Stratus' and officially called XFG, is gaining attention in the United States this summer. Health experts are closely monitoring its spread, though it is not yet considered a major threat.
XFG was first detected in Southeast Asia in January. For months, there were almost no cases reported in the US. But by late June, the Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reported that XFG accounted for 14 per cent of all US COVID-19 cases, making it the third most common variant in the country.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has added XFG to its list of monitored variants, but currently rates its global health risk as 'low." According to the WHO, existing COVID-19 vaccines are still expected to protect against both symptomatic and severe illness caused by this strain.
What Makes Stratus (XFG) Different?
As reported by Hindustan Times, XFG is a recombinant strain, meaning it is a genetic mix of two earlier variants, F.7 and LP.8.1.2. Interestingly, LP.8.1.2 is now the second most common variant in the US.
Scientists believe XFG may have certain mutations that help it evade the immune system more effectively than some earlier strains. However, this doesn't mean it spreads faster or causes worse illness.
How Quickly Is It Spreading?
While XFG has not surpassed the top two variants in the US, its growth has been steady. It made up 0 per cent of cases in March, rose to 2 per cent in April, 6 per cent in May, and 14 per cent by the end of June, according to CDC data.
Globally, the WHO reported a similar rise from 7.4 per cent of cases in early May to 22.7 per cent by the end of June, spreading across 38 countries.
Symptoms to Watch For
The CDC notes that symptoms of XFG appear similar to earlier Omicron variants. Common signs include:
Fever or chills,
Cough,
Fatigue,
Sore throat,
Loss of taste or smell,
Nasal congestion,
Muscle aches,
Shortness of breath,
Headache,
Nausea,
Vomiting
Health experts recommend remaining cautious and getting tested if any symptoms develop.
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