New COVID variant Stratus (XFG) spreads in the US: Symptoms, risks, and what you need to know

As the United States experiences another wave of COVID-19, a variant named Stratus (XFG) has caught the attention of health authorities. Officially identified as XFG, this recombinant strain was first detected in Southeast Asia in January 2025. While initially flying under the radar in the US, XFG accounted for 14% of all cases by late June, making it the third most prevalent variant according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Globally, the World Health Organization (WHO) has added XFG to its monitoring list, though it continues to classify the variant’s overall public health risk as low. Experts reassure that current COVID-19 vaccines remain effective against symptomatic and severe disease caused by this strain.XFG is a recombinant variant, meaning it combines genetic material from two earlier strains: F.7 and LP.8.1.2. While LP.8.1.2 is now the second most common strain in the US, XFG is notable for its mutations that may help it evade the immune system.Importantly, experts emphasize that these mutations do not make XFG more dangerous. According to Dr. Subhash Verma, microbiology and immunology professor at the University of Nevada, XFG does not cause more severe illness or different symptoms compared to earlier Omicron variants. Health authorities classify the variant as low risk, but continued monitoring is essential to track its evolution.As reported by USA Today, XFG’s prevalence in the US has increased rapidly in recent months:Globally, the WHO reported a rise from 7.4% in early May to 22.7% by the end of June across 38 countries. Despite this growth, XFG has not surpassed the top two variants, but its upward trend underscores the importance of ongoing genomic surveillance and vaccine coverage.As USA Today reported, know the familiar COVID-19 symptoms for XFG infections. These include:Health officials stress that symptom patterns remain consistent with prior Omicron variants, and early testing, vaccination, and isolation are key to controlling spread.To reduce the risk of infection from the XFG variant (Stratus), follow these recommended safety measures:Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general educational purposes only and is based on data available from the reputable news sources as of August 2025. It should not be considered medical advice. Always consult healthcare professionals for personal guidance on COVID-19 prevention, testing, and treatment.Also read | Sudden cardiac arrest in gyms: Causes, prevention tips, and urgent advisory issued for young athletes by Punjab government