A new COVID-19 strain called Stratus is spreading across the UK, bringing with it an unusual symptom that sets it apart from previous variants. The distinctive feature of this strain is that it causes infected individuals to develop a hoarse voice, offering a unique identifier for the illness.
The Stratus variant, along with its sub-variants XFG and XFG.3, is currently circulating throughout the country. COVID-19 positivity rates have jumped significantly from 7.6 per cent to 8.4 per cent within just one week, while hospital admissions have risen from 2.00 to 2.73 per 100,000 people.
Only WalesOnline reports that the Stratus variant originally emerged in Southeast Asia in January 2025 and had spread to 38 countries by June. According to Daily Star, the XFG.3 variant comprised approximately 40 per cent of COVID cases as of June 2025.
Health authorities respond
Specialists from the UK Health Security Agency and the World Health Organisation are closely monitoring these variants but remain relatively unconcerned. They emphasise that viral mutation is a typical occurrence and part of the natural evolution of the virus.
The country faces what experts describe as a potential "tripledemic" - the simultaneous rise of COVID-19, flu, and RSV infections heading into winter. Flu positivity has also increased from 1.1 per cent to 1.3 per cent over the same period.
Vaccination drive intensifies
The UK Health Security Agency is urgently encouraging eligible individuals to book their free vaccinations through the NHS national booking system. This marks the first time toddlers can receive flu vaccination through nasal spray at local chemists.
Dr Jamie Lopez Bernal, Consultant Epidemiologist at UKHSA, said: "Flu and COVID-19 levels are starting to slowly increase. While this is to be expected at this time of year, now is the time for people to come forward for their winter vaccines if they're eligible, before we start to see more of these viruses in circulation in the winter months."
Flu vaccinations are available for those aged 65 and over, people with long-term health conditions, pregnant women, and care home residents. COVID-19 vaccinations cover individuals aged 75 and over, those aged six months to 74 years with compromised immune systems, and older adult care home residents.
Prevention measures advised
The agency has also documented a significant spike in rhinovirus, which causes common colds, likely driven by pupils returning to classrooms after the summer break. Detection rates jumped to 14.8 per cent from the previous week's 10.9 per cent.
Health officials advise anyone with symptoms such as high temperature, cough, and feeling tired and achy to limit contact with others, especially vulnerable individuals. If symptoms are present and leaving the house is necessary, wearing a face covering is recommended along with regular hand washing and proper tissue disposal.
A new vaccination awareness campaign called 'Stay Strong. Get Vaccinated' has been launched by the Department of Health and Social Care in partnership with UKHSA and NHS England. The initiative will target eligible demographics through television, radio, billboard advertising and social media.
Sources used: "Yorkshire", "Manchester Evening", "WalesOnline", "Daily Star" Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
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