Global Health Watch: New "Stratus" COVID-19 Variant (XFG) Sparks Monitoring Efforts
A new COVID-19 variant, officially designated XFG and informally dubbed "Stratus," is now under close monitoring by the World Health Organization (WHO) as it rapidly expands its footprint across the globe. This "Frankenstein variant," a recombinant of the LF.7 and LP.8.1.2 lineages, is quickly becoming a dominant strain in several regions, including the UK and parts of Southeast Asia.
While health experts emphasize that the public health risk from XFG remains low and it doesn't appear to cause more severe illness than previous variants, its increased transmissibility and a unique symptom profile warrant careful attention from health authorities worldwide.
Understanding the "Stratus" (XFG) Variant:
Origin and Nature: XFG is a recombinant subvariant, meaning it emerged when a person was simultaneously infected with two different COVID-19 strains, leading to a genetic mash-up. It's a descendant of the Omicron sub-variant family, with its earliest sample collected in January 2025. First detected in Canada, it has since spread to at least 38 countries.
Distinctive Symptom: Hoarseness: Unlike many prior variants, "Stratus" is notably characterized by a unique symptom: hoarseness. This can manifest as a scratchy or raspy voice, setting it apart from the more classic COVID-19 symptoms like a heavy cough or fever. Other common symptoms are generally mild to moderate and include:
Low-grade fever or chills
Mild sore throat or throat irritation
Runny or blocked nose
Persistent dry cough
Fatigue and mild headache
Gastrointestinal symptoms (nausea, appetite loss, or diarrhea)
Muscle aches and body pain
Transmissibility and Immune Evasion: XFG demonstrates a growth advantage, indicating it can spread more rapidly than some other circulating strains. It possesses distinct mutations in its spike protein that may enhance its ability to evade antibodies from prior infections or vaccinations. However, some studies suggest it might not bind to human cells as effectively as earlier variants, potentially balancing its immune evasion capabilities.
Severity: Current data doesn't suggest that XFG causes more severe illness, increased hospitalizations, or higher mortality rates compared to other circulating variants. Most cases remain mild and can be managed from home.
Vulnerable Populations: Consistent with other COVID-19 variants, individuals at higher risk for severe outcomes include:
The elderly (above 60 years)
People with underlying health conditions (diabetes, hypertension, heart, lung, or kidney conditions)
Immunocompromised individuals
Pregnant women and young children
Unvaccinated individuals
Public Health Recommendations:
Testing: If you experience symptoms or have been exposed, get tested. Rapid Antigen Tests (RATs) are good for quick screening, while RT-PCR tests remain the gold standard for accuracy. Multiplex PCR tests can also help differentiate between COVID-19, flu, and other respiratory infections.
Isolation: If you test positive, it's advised to stay home and isolate for at least 7 days from symptom onset and until you are fever-free for 24 hours without medication.
Vaccination: Existing COVID-19 vaccines, particularly those targeting the JN.1 or KP.2 lineages (common Omicron descendants), are expected to continue offering protection against severe disease and hospitalization from XFG, even if the protection is slightly less robust than against the specific variant they target.
General Health Practices: Continue to follow public health guidelines, including good hand hygiene, avoiding close contact if sick, and considering mask-wearing in crowded indoor settings, especially if vulnerable.
Global health authorities continue to monitor XFG and other emerging variants closely, urging vigilance rather than panic.
