Archive · 10 Aug 2025
New Stratus COVID-19 Variant Spreads in the US
A new COVID-19 variant called XFG, or Stratus, is spreading in the US.
This variant is a mix of other COVID-19 strains.
It's becoming more common, but experts don't think it's more dangerous than earlier versions.
Current vaccines should still work well against it.
The WHO is watching it but says it's not a major threat right now.
Wastewater data shows virus levels are increasing nationwide, especially in the Western US.
New COVID-19 variant XFG, or Stratus, is emerging in the US.
XFG combines mutations from the F.7 and LP.8.1.2 variants.
By late June, XFG accounted for up to 14% of US infections.
Current vaccines are expected to protect against severe illness from XFG.
WHO assessed the global public health risk of XFG as low.
- Who
- The new variant is called XFG, or Stratus.
- What
- A new COVID-19 variant, XFG, is emerging.
- When
- Initially detected in January, by late June it accounted for up to 14% of US infections.
- Where
- United States and Southeast Asia
- Why
- The variant's mutations may enhance XFG's ability to evade immune responses
Fact-Based Summary
Fact-Based Summary
No opposing sides
Fact-Based Summary
No opposing sides.
Fact-Based Summary
No opposing sides.
- Variant Name
- XFG (Stratus)
- Origin
- Mutations from F.7 and LP.8.1.2 variants
- Prevalence (June)
- Up to 14% of US infections
- Severity
- No clear evidence of more severe illness
- Vaccine Protection
- Expected to provide protection against symptomatic and severe illness
- WHO Assessment
- Low public health risk globally