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The new "Stratus" variant of Covid alarms experts, here are the symptoms that should worry you!
2025-09-06 13:49:02 / EKONOMI&SOCIALE
The new variant of COVID-19, called Stratus (XFG), is spreading rapidly in Italy. According to Italian media, citing virologist Mauro Pistello, "today, over half of COVID-19 infections in Italy are attributed to Stratus."
The European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) estimates that in Europe, during the summer, the average rate of sequences attributed to Stratus exceeded 60%, while the WHO reports a global prevalence of over 65% in August analyses.
Despite the increase, health authorities clarify that there are no signs of increased clinical severity: Stratus is classified as a Variant Under Monitoring, with additional low risk. The COVID-19 vaccines currently in use are considered effective in preventing severe forms of the disease.
What is Stratus (XFG) and why is it monitored?
The Stratus variant, first identified between late spring and early summer 2025, belongs to the Omicron-related family of COVID-19 mutations. Its rapid spread has led the WHO and ECDC to include it on the list of variants "under monitoring". This alert level does not automatically imply increased risk, but serves to closely monitor parameters such as transmission rate, clinical severity and potential ability to evade the immune response.
Where it's spreading: data from Italy, Europe and the world
In Europe, according to ECDC data, Stratus accounted for an average of 60% of COVID-19 sequences analyzed during the summer months. In the United States and other parts of the world, the subvariant showed a similar prevalence, with values exceeding 65% of sequences.
The symptoms of Stratus are largely similar to those seen in previous waves of Covid, but some doctors have reported some peculiarities. One of the most common complaints is hoarseness accompanied by pain and burning in the throat. In Italy, symptoms such as loss of smell and taste, which characterized the early stages of the pandemic, have also been reported. In addition, classic Covid symptoms remain common: fever, dry cough, fatigue and muscle aches.
Hoarseness and sore throat: The main symptom of Stratus is a severely irritated throat, which causes persistent hoarseness.
Fever and dry cough : Moderate fever and dry cough continue to be among the most common signs of new COVID-19 infections.
Loss of smell/taste: In Italy, some patients have experienced symptoms that seem to be less frequent in recent waves.
Risk and severity: What the WHO and ECDC say about Stratus
WHO stresses that, at present, there is no evidence of increased severity of Stratus infections. The variant is considered low-risk, with the main challenge being its ability to rapidly replace other COVID-19 strains already circulating. ECDC reiterates that COVID-19 vaccines remain essential: they do not eliminate the risk of infection, but continue to offer significant protection against severe cases.
Autumn: Recommendations and priorities for vulnerable individuals
With the arrival of the autumn season, virologists recommend greater attention to the elderly, individuals with weak immunity and those with chronic diseases. The vaccination campaign, updated with boosters targeting new variants, is considered the main preventive tool.
What to do if you experience symptoms?
Experts recommend getting a diagnostic test if symptoms are suspected, to confirm COVID-19 infection, and self-isolating if necessary. Particular attention should be paid to the most characteristic signs - intense hoarseness, sore throat, loss of smell and taste - and contacting a doctor if symptoms persist or are severe. General recommendations remain valid: wearing a mask in crowded places, practicing hand hygiene, and taking care of vulnerable individuals.
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