A new Covid variant called Stratus is spreading rapidly across the UK, with 1,541 cases recorded in England in the seven days up to September 3. This represents a 7.1% week-on-week increase according to UK Health Security Agency data.
The World Health Organisation has categorised Stratus as a "variant under monitoring" with an overall risk assessment of "low". The variant shows increased transmissibility compared to previous strains but currently shows no evidence of causing more severe illness.
Distinctive hoarseness symptom
The Stratus variant, also known as XFG, presents with a unique symptom that sets it apart from previous Covid strains. Harley Street GP Dr Kaywaan Khan said: "One of the most noticeable symptoms of the Stratus variant is hoarseness, which includes a scratchy or raspy voice."
Doctors have identified additional symptoms including nasal congestion, sore throats, stomach upsets and fatigue. Dr Peter Chin-Hong, an infectious disease specialist from the University of California San Francisco, said: "There's a little bit more sore throats with some people. Particularly in those who are older, who didn't get vaccinated last year."
Variant dominance surge
WalesOnline reports that XFG variants now comprise 75% of cases in England, up dramatically from 40% in July. This shows a rapid shift in dominance as the variant spreads through communities during the back-to-school period.
According to Yorkshire, Irish data reveals 76.1% of infections are now the Stratus variant compared to 49.3% six weeks earlier. Ireland recorded 425 fresh infections in the first week of September alone.
Viral evolution and NHS preparations
WalesOnline reports that XFG is a hybrid of two omicron strains (LF.7 and LP.8.1.2) with unique mutations that improve antibody evasion. This means the variant might be harder for immune systems to fight off, even in vaccinated individuals.
The NHS is preparing for what could be its busiest winter on record, with WalesOnline reporting 'war games' exercises and rescue medication stockpiling taking place. Dr Chin-Hong warned: "It's more transmissible, so we expect that a lot of people will get it. Particularly with kids going back to school, a sniffle is likely going to be Covid."
Traditional Covid symptoms remain relevant for identification, including high temperature, continuous cough, loss of smell or taste, shortness of breath, fatigue, aching body, headache, sore throat, blocked nose, loss of appetite, diarrhoea and nausea. Most individuals recover within a few weeks, though some may experience longer-lasting symptoms.
Sources used: "Chronicle Live", "WalesOnline", "Yorkshire", "Irish Mirror", "Manchester Evening News", "SFGATE", "Cosmopolitan UK"
Note: This article has been edited with the help of Artificial Intelligence.
