The XFG variant, also known as Stratus, has become the predominant strain of COVID-19 in the U.S. According to the World Health Organization and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the strain has spread to 38 countries and is now showing a spike in case numbers in nine U.S. states, including New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, and both North and South Dakota.
The variant, first detected in Southeast Asia in January, has been gaining attention from medical professionals and public health officials for its potential to evade the immune system more effectively than previous strains. While the change is described as ‘marginal’ by the WHO and Stony Brook Medicine, it is recommended that unvaccinated individuals and those who have not been previously infected take greater precautions, as they may be at a higher risk of infection.
Cases of Stratus have been reported to be mild for vaccinated individuals, who are less likely to develop severe symptoms. However, those experiencing persistent symptoms such as brain fog, loss of taste or smell, and dry cough should seek medical attention. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention advises individuals to watch out for symptoms like high fever, chest tightness, and difficulty breathing and to consult a doctor if those symptoms persist.
Stratus may also present as shortness of breath, chest tightness, sore or scratchy throat, headaches and body aches, upset stomach, nausea or loss of appetite, brain fog or trouble concentrating, and loss of taste or smell, although that symptom is now becoming less common. If these symptoms arise, experts recommend seeking medical attention for diagnosis and proper treatment, possibly including antiviral medications, at-home remedies or over-the-counter drugs.
Individuals should see a doctor if a high fever over 103 degrees lasts for more than three days, or if symptoms suddenly get worse after improving, Stony Brook instructed. For high-risk groups, severe COVID-19 illness can be reduced by staying up to date with vaccinations, experts advise.
The virus can also be prevented by wearing a mask in crowded or indoor spaces, especially during cold and flu season, opening a window or using an air filter while indoors, washing hands often, avoiding close contact with others and checking local COVID numbers before traveling, the above source stated.