A Rising Concern
A new Covid variant, dubbed “Stratus” or scientifically known as XFG, is spreading rapidly across the UK, raising concerns among health experts. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Stratus has become the dominant coronavirus strain in England, accounting for nearly 40% of cases in mid-June, up from 10% in May.
What is Stratus?
Stratus is a recombinant or “Frankenstein” strain, descended from the highly contagious Omicron variant. It emerged from a hybrid infection involving two Covid variants, making it more infectious due to mutations that help it evade the immune system. A sub-lineage, XFG.3, is also spreading rapidly.
Increased Transmissibility
Professor Lawrence Young, a virologist at the University of Warwick, warns that Stratus’s new spike mutations make it more competitive and able to evade the immune response. This increased transmissibility could lead to a new wave of infections.
Symptoms and Severity
The symptoms of Stratus are similar to earlier Covid variants, including:
- Common Symptoms:
- Cough
- Fatigue
- High temperature
- Sore throat
- Headache
- Distinct Symptom:
- Hoarseness or a scratchy voice
While Stratus is highly contagious, there is currently no evidence suggesting it causes more severe illness. Covid vaccines are likely to offer protection against severe illness and hospitalization.
Global Monitoring
The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed Stratus as a “variant under monitoring” with a low overall risk assessment. However, the WHO acknowledges its significant growth advantage, now responsible for around 22% of global Covid cases ¹.
Expert Advice
Professor Young stresses the importance of vaccination and booster shots to prevent severe outcomes. As immunity wanes in the population, it’s crucial to stay alert and follow preventive measures to curb the spread of Stratus.
