The new COVID variant, called XFG or ‘stratus,’ is now the dominant strain in the U.S. and has a few symptoms that may differ from previous strains. Here’s what you need to know
A new Covid-19 strain is spreading rapidly across America, bringing with it one particularly brutal symptom that’s catching experts’ attention.
Infections surged throughout the summer months and show no signs of slowing as winter approaches. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention revealed that Covid activity in wastewater reached “high” levels nationwide in September, with this latest variant taking the lead.
Scientists have dubbed the emerging strain XFG, or “Stratus.” First spotted in March, it has now overtaken the previous “Nimbus” variant to become the dominant strain infecting Americans. This development comes at a time when Covid vaccination access has been limited in several states.
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While this new variant shares similarities with previous strains, one particular symptom serves as a clear warning sign of infection.
Major symptom of Covid ‘Stratus’
The primary indicator of the Stratus strain is throat pain, specifically a hoarse, scratchy sensation.
“A ‘razor blade throat’ is a very descriptive term describing severe sore throat pain – as if their throat is covered with razor blades – (like) with various viral infections,” Dr. Aaron Glatt, chair of the department of medicine and chief of infectious diseases at Mount Sinai South Nassau in New York, told TODAY.
“While not specific to COVID-19, this expression has been used to describe sore throat symptoms in some patients with the most recent COVID-19 variant.”
Sore throats are widespread with numerous ailments, including every Covid variant. However, it could be even more prevalent with the latest strain.
Along with a sore throat, other symptoms include:
- Cough
- Congestion or runny nose
- Fever or chills
- Shortness of breath
- New loss of sense of taste or smell
- Fatigue
- Headache
- Muscle aches
- Nausea, vomiting or diarrhea
Stratus is now dominant
The CDC reports that in April of this year, cases of Stratus were about 5% of all Covid cases. As of August, Stratus made up about 78% of all Covid cases.
CDC wastewater between Sept. 14 and 20 showed the states where cases are “very high” include Nevada, Utah, Connecticut and Delaware.
In that time period, there are 15 states where Covid cases are considered “high.” That includes Washington, Oregon, California, Montana, Minnesota, South Dakota, Nebraska, Arkansas, Louisiana, Indiana, Alabama, North Carolina, New York, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island.
Can I get a Covid vaccine?
There have been some limitations on Covid vaccines despite an increase in cases. Two major chains, CVS and Walgreens, put restrictions on who can receive the vaccine.
CVS said to CBS News people who come in, even with prescriptions, in New Mexico, Nevada and Massachusetts because of state laws and regulations.
In 14 states, patients wanting a vaccination must come with a doctor’s prescription. Similarly, Walgreens is requiring a prescription in 16 states.
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