COVID-19 variant, a recombinant of LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, is spreading rapidly and causing concern. Griffin (2025) reports that four key mutations in Stratus's spike protein may enhance immune evasion, reducing antibody efficacy by nearly two-fold compared to LP.8.1.1. Due to this increased transmissibility, the WHO is closely monitoring Stratus as it nears dominance over Nimbus.However, preliminary data suggests existing mRNA vaccines still offer significant protection against severe disease and hospitalization. The CDC is urging individuals to stay up-to-date on their vaccinations and booster shots. Further research is underway to fully characterize Stratus's potential impact on vulnerable populations and the effectiveness of various therapeutic interventions. The rapid spread highlights the ongoing need for robust genomic surveillance and continued development of broadly protective vaccines.
Stratus variants currently account for just over 30% of COVID cases in England, up from 10% in May, according to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). They are the most prevalent variants.
WHO) has said that XFG is growing rapidly globally and is thought to be slightly more infectious than previous variants.
COVID cases in general are decreasing compared to recent weeks.
A “variant under monitoring” signifies a variant or subvariant which needs prioritised attention and monitoring due to characteristics that may pose an additional threat compared to other circulating variants.
XFG was one of seven variants under monitoring as of June 25. The most recent addition before XFG was NB.1.8.1 (nicknamed “Nimbus”), which the WHO declared a variant under monitoring on May 23.
Both nimbus and stratus are types of clouds.
The public health risk posed by XFG is evaluated as low at the global level, as per WHO's latest report.
However, the Lancet study has mentioned that the XFG sub-variant has the potential to spread quickly and exhibits "strong immune evasion." This allows the virus to survive and spread easily as it can evade the body's natural defences.
Is vaccination effective?
As of June 25, XFG has been designated a variant under monitoring (VUM). "Currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against this variant against symptomatic and severe disease," mentions WHO.
Recent data indicate that Stratus is particularly prevalent in Southeast Asia and accounted for approximately 30% of new COVID-19 cases in England by late June 2025 . Symptoms associated with this variant include a notably hoarse throat, which distinguishes it from earlier variants; however, current evidence suggests that it does not lead to more severe disease outcomes than those seen previously . While the WHO currently assesses the risk posed by Stratus as "low," its rapid proliferation necessitates ongoing vigilance and research into vaccine effectiveness against this emerging strain.
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