Archive · 12 Aug 2025
New Stratus COVID-19 Variant Fuels Rise in US Cases
A new version of COVID-19, nicknamed Stratus, is spreading in the US.
It's becoming more common, especially in some western states, where more people seem to be getting sick.
This is being tracked by looking at wastewater, which shows how much of the virus is present in the community.
The symptoms are like other COVID-19 strains: fever, tiredness, and a sore throat.
Some people with the Stratus variant have a hoarse voice.
It's a typical pattern in summer because people gather inside to stay cool and the new variant may also be contributing.
At the same time, the government is cutting back on some contracts for making COVID-19 vaccines.
New COVID-19 variant 'Stratus' is emerging as the third most common strain in the US.
Several western US states are experiencing sharp increases in COVID-19 activity, with rising wastewater virus levels.
Symptoms of the Stratus variant are similar to other Omicron subvariants, including fever, chills, and fatigue.
Some patients with the Stratus variant have reported a distinctive hoarseness or raspy voice.
The US Department of Health and Human Services is ending 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines.
- Who
- A new variant, nicknamed Stratus, of the COVID-19 virus.
- What
- A new COVID-19 variant called Stratus is emerging, and cases are increasing.
- When
- In late June, the Stratus variant accounted for up to 14% of cases. Infections were growing as of August 12.
- Where
- Several western US states are seeing increased COVID-19 activity.
- Why
- Increased indoor gatherings in summer and the emergence of a new variant are contributing to rising cases.
Government
Unknown
Vaccine Contracts
Government
Ending 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines.
Unknown
Unknown
- Variant Name
- Stratus (XFG)
- Common Symptoms
- Fever, chills, shortness of breath, sore throat, fatigue, headache, nausea, vomiting, muscle aches, loss of taste or smell, diarrhoea
- Unique Symptom
- Distinctive hoarseness or raspy voice
- Wastewater Levels
- Highest since winter in some areas
- Vaccine Contract Status
- 22 federal contracts for mRNA-based vaccines are ending.