The XFG ‘Stratus’ COVID Variant: Dominating the US Amid a Surge in Cases
The XFG COVID variant, affectionately dubbed “Stratus”, has emerged as the dominant strain in the United States. This comes as the nation grapples with a late summer wave of infections, just on the cusp of the back-to-school season. Data reveals a rising trend in cases across most states, with a particular surge in the West and South. COVID-related emergency room visits are also on an upward trajectory across all age groups.
The highly transmissible XFG variant was initially detected in Southeast Asia in January and was responsible for the spring surges in India. The first U.S. cases were reported in March. However, it took several months for XFG to overtake the previously dominant NB.1.8.1 “Nimbus” variant.
According to Dr. Albert Ko, a professor of public health at the Yale School of Public Health, “NB.1.18.1 (Nimbus) and XFG (Stratus) appear to be more transmissible compared to other variants.”
Despite the World Health Organization assessing the public health risk posed by XFG as “low”, current data suggests that the variant does not cause more severe illness. Health experts continue to advocate for staying up-to-date on COVID-19 vaccinations, testing if symptoms develop, avoiding others when sick, and wearing N95 masks in crowded indoor spaces.
Source: Today.com