New Virus Strain Surges Across 9 US States Causing Brain Fog and Persistent Cough Symptoms
New COVID-19 Variant ‘Stratus’ Raises Concerns as Cases Rise Globally
Southeast Asia: The Origin of the Stratus Variant
A new COVID-19 strain, identified as the XFG variant or ‘Stratus,’ is causing a surge in global cases since its initial detection in Southeast Asia this January. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Stratus as a “SATS-CoV-2 variant under monitoring” after it spread to 38 countries by June.
Stratus Takes Hold in the United States
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports increasing COVID-19 cases in nine U.S. states, including New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Vermont, Michigan, Wisconsin, Minnesota, North Dakota, and South Dakota, with Stratus becoming the predominant variant. Recent CDC wastewater data from mid-September further corroborates Stratus’s prevalence.
Characteristics and Challenges of the Stratus Variant
Stratus follows the highly contagious Nimbus strain, known for severe sore throat symptoms. According to Stony Brook Medicine, this variant has adapted to evade the immune system more effectively than Nimbus, posing a challenge especially to the unvaccinated and those without prior infection. However, the change remains “marginal” and should not overly alarm most people.
Identifying Symptoms of the Stratus Variant
Most symptoms resemble typical COVID-19 presentations, with vaccinated individuals experiencing milder cases. Key symptoms include:
- Fatigue
- Fever
- Persistent dry cough
- Shortness of breath
- Chest tightness
- Sore or scratchy throat
- Headaches and body aches
- Nausea or loss of appetite
- Brain fog or trouble concentrating
- Decreasing prevalence of loss of taste or smell
Medical experts suggest seeking attention if serious symptoms develop, such as a high fever over 103 degrees lasting beyond three days, or if conditions suddenly worsen after improvement.
Prevention and Safety Measures
To mitigate the risk of severe illness, staying updated with COVID-19 vaccinations remains paramount, especially for high-risk groups. Preventive measures include:
- Mask-wearing in crowded or indoor environments, particularly during cold and flu seasons
- Improving indoor ventilation with open windows or air filters
- Practicing frequent hand washing
- Avoiding close contact with symptomatic individuals
- Reviewing local COVID-19 rates before travel
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