Summary
COVID-19 cases are rising in several U.S. states due to a new variant called Stratus, identified earlier this year. This variant, similar to the Nimbus strain, is highly infectious and is causing concern among health officials.
Key Facts
- The Stratus variant, an XFG strain, was first found in Southeast Asia and has now spread to 38 countries.
- COVID-19 cases are increasing in nine U.S. states: New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota.
- As of mid-September, the XFG variant is the main strain in the U.S.
- Stratus is known for causing severe sore throats and is highly infectious.
- Symptoms include fatigue, fever, dry cough, shortness of breath, chest tightness, headaches, stomach issues, brain fog, and loss of smell or taste.
- Those with weak immune systems and the unvaccinated are at higher risk for severe illness.
- Current vaccines provide limited and shorter protection, requiring updates for new strains.
- New vaccines in development aim to offer better, longer-lasting immune protection.
