New Stratus Variant Spurs Doctor’s Warning on Covid Symptoms

A new strain of the coronavirus, identified as ‘Stratus’, is spreading rapidly across the United Kingdom, prompting health officials to issue warnings regarding its symptoms. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) first detected this variant in January 2023. By June, the World Health Organization (WHO) placed the Stratus variant “under monitoring” due to its increasing global presence.

Recent data from the UKHSA indicates that in the first week of September 2023, more than 1,600 new cases of coronavirus were reported, reflecting a rise of 7.6 percent. While it remains unclear how many of these cases were caused by the Stratus variant, which has two sub-variants, XFG and XFG.3, the situation highlights the ongoing challenges posed by Covid-19, especially as other respiratory viruses circulate during the colder months.

Dr. Gareth Nye, a health expert from the University of Salford, has emphasized the importance of recognizing specific symptoms linked to the Stratus strain. In comments to The Mirror, he noted that while symptoms may largely resemble those of previous Covid variants, individuals infected with Stratus often experience particularly severe sore throats and hoarse voices. “In most ways, it’s almost identical [to other Covid strains],” Dr. Nye explained, adding that the more general symptoms such as cough, fever, and body aches still persist.

As children return to school, Dr. Nye cautioned that illnesses, including Covid-19, tend to spike. He remarked, “Illnesses always see spikes as children go back to school, as close contact and often lower personal hygiene levels mix.” This new variant raises additional concerns because it appears to evade immune defenses, making previous vaccinations less effective. “Think of it like updating your phone to get the best possible experience,” he advised, underscoring the necessity for regular vaccination against the latest strains.

Despite Covid-19 becoming a more common illness in the UK, Dr. Nye stressed the continued importance of precautionary measures. He urged individuals to get tested and self-isolate if they suspect an infection, particularly to protect vulnerable populations, including older adults and those with compromised immune systems. His recommendations align with public health guidelines aimed at controlling the spread of the virus.

In a related statement, Dr. Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease expert from the University of California, highlighted that the Stratus variant presents a “wider range” of symptoms compared to earlier strains. He noted an increase in sore throats, particularly among older individuals who may not have received vaccinations in the previous year. Dr. Chin-Hong also pointed out the variant’s heightened transmissibility, especially with children returning to school. “A sniffle is likely going to be Covid,” he warned.

Currently, certain groups in the UK are eligible for free vaccine boosters through the National Health Service (NHS). These groups include adults aged over 75, residents in care homes for older adults, and those who are immunocompromised, including children aged six months and older. As the Stratus variant emerges alongside other respiratory illnesses, public health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, emphasizing the importance of vaccination and public health practices to mitigate the spread of Covid-19.