A new Covid variant called ‘Stratus’ is making the rounds across the UK, and its main claim to fame is a surprisingly simple one – a hoarse or croaky voice.
While the number of Covid cases has gone up this autumn, experts say there’s no need to panic; it’s normal for the virus to change and pick up new symptoms over time.
Most people infected with Stratus aren’t experiencing more severe illness than with earlier strains, and the usual advice still stands: take care, stay home if unwell, and keep up with vaccinations.
Here’s everything you need to know about the new Covid variant called ‘Stratus.’
What is the ‘Stratus’ Covid strain?
The ‘Stratus’ strain is a new variant of Covid-19 circulating in the UK and other regions. It consists of two closely related variants: XFG and XFG.3. The World Health Organisation (WHO) has classified XFG as a “variant under monitoring,” but determined its global public health risk is low.
Why is it called ‘Stratus’ and what makes it notable?
‘Stratus’ was named after its classification as XFG and XFG.3. What makes this variant notable is its unique symptom profile – some patients report developing a distinct “hoarse voice,” unlike symptoms with other recent Covid variants.
Are Stratus Covid cases rising in the UK?
Yes, by September 10, there was a 7.6% increase in reported Covid cases across England compared to the previous week. Stratus is believed to account for a significant proportion of these new cases, but authorities are still determining exactly how many are linked to the XFG variant.
Does Stratus cause more severe illness?
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) and WHOcurrent data does not indicate that the Stratus variants (XFG and XFG.3) lead to more severe illness or increased deaths compared to earlier Covid strains.
What are the main symptoms of Stratus?
The hallmark symptom for Stratus is a hoarse voice.
Other common Covid symptoms may also be present but this vocal change is reportedly more prominent with Stratus.
Previous variants, such as Nimbus, were linked to “razor-blade-like” sore throats, but Stratus’s hoarse voice stands out as different.
Should people be worried about XFG?
Experts say there is no cause for significant concern regarding XFG. It is normal for viruses to mutate. Although XFG is spreading rapidly and has a slight advantage in immune evasion, there is no evidence it increases disease severity or increases risk for the wider public. The new cases and hospitalisations reported are not more serious than with previous Omicron descendants.
Do current Covid vaccines work against Stratus?
Yes, based on available information, current Covid vaccines are expected to remain effective against both symptomatic and severe disease caused by Stratus (XFG and XFG.3). WHO continues to study lab data, but the risk of vaccine escape is considered low at this time.
Could Stratus evade immunity from previous infection or vaccination?
Some experts note that Stratus contains mutations in its spike protein that “could help it evade antibodies” created from earlier infection or vaccination. However, this ability appears to be only marginally higher than previous variants and does not presently suggest a major risk to those vaccinated or previously infected.
The UKHSA and WHO are closely monitoring the spread and impacts of the Stratus variant, continuously reviewing data and lab studies as the situation evolves. Official advice is evolving as more evidence becomes available, but health agencies are not currently recommending additional public health measures.
You can find more information on the UK government website here.
