XFG Stratus COVID-19 variant drives global rise in infections

Global COVID-19 infection rates are rising as a new variant, XFG (nicknamed ‘Stratus’), spreads across multiple regions. Significant increases in virus concentrations have been detected in wastewater in China, the United States, and parts of Asia. In France, reports indicate the virus is spreading through schools, offices, and public transport.

In Germany, the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) reports a rising trend in SARS-CoV-2 levels in wastewater over the last four weeks, though overall levels remain low. The XFG variant, a recombinant mix of the LF.7 and LP.8 subvariants first recorded in Canada, is currently the dominant strain in Germany. Reported symptoms include dry cough, sore throat, diarrhea, fatigue, and notable hoarseness.