**Emergence of ‘Stratus’ Variant: New Covid Strain Spreads Rapidly Across England**
A new Covid-19 variant, dubbed ‘Stratus’, has quickly gained traction in England and now dominates the landscape of coronavirus cases, according to the latest figures published by health authorities. Originally detected in January this year, the ‘Stratus’ variant has prompted attention from both the World Health Organisation (WHO) and the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) due to its accelerating prevalence.
On 25 June, the WHO officially labelled ‘Stratus’ as a “variant under monitoring,” highlighting its swift rise compared to other circulating strains. While the agency acknowledges that the new variant may have an increased ability to “evade immunity”—including that conferred by vaccination or previous infection—it currently assesses the global public health risk associated with ‘Stratus’ as “low”.
More detailed data from the UKHSA shows that ‘Stratus’ actually comprises two main sub-variants: XFG, and its offshoot, XFG.3. Back in May 2025, these sub-variants combined accounted for just 10% of Covid cases seen in England. However, new analyses indicate a significant shift—recent figures reveal that these two forms now constitute approximately 40% of all reported cases in the country. Specifically, figures collected between 26 May and 8 June suggest XFG.3 is responsible for 28.9% of infections, while XFG covers a further 11.4%.
Unsurprisingly, with such a surge in prevalence, the NHS and medical experts are urging the public to be mindful of the emerging symptoms attributed to these strains. Dr Kaywaan Khan, a well-known Harley Street GP, has pointed to one symptom in particular setting ‘Stratus’ apart: a hoarse or raspy voice. “People infected with the Stratus variant often notice changes to their voice, such as hoarseness or a scratchy sensation,” Dr Khan explained.
Nevertheless, there is a consensus in the medical community that, despite these distinct symptoms, ‘Stratus’ does not seem to result in more serious illness compared to earlier forms of the virus. Dr Khan further emphasised that most symptom presentations are “mild to moderate.” This perspective is echoed in other regions, including India, where clinicians report infected patients commonly experience a dry cough, sore throat, fever, muscle aches, and general fatigue—a pattern consistent with traditional Covid-19 symptoms.
The WHO has reiterated that, while some countries in the South-east Asia Region—where XFG is particularly widespread—are experiencing higher case numbers and increased hospitalisations, there is no evidence at present suggesting that the severity of illness is greater than with previous variants. The agency’s representative explained, “Although we’re seeing notable rises in hospital admissions in some areas, the clinical outcomes do not appear to be any worse than other variants still in circulation.”
This emergence comes soon after the rise of the ‘Nimbus’ variant, which earlier this year drew attention due to its unique “razor blade sensation” symptom—a sharp pain when swallowing. Much like ‘Nimbus’, ‘Stratus’ remains under close scrutiny by health authorities for any changes in its behaviour or impact.
The NHS continues to list a range of common symptoms for Covid-19, which remain relevant for the ‘Stratus’ variant. These include a high temperature or chills, persistent cough, alterations to taste or smell, breathlessness, fatigue, muscle or joint pain, headache, sore throat, nasal congestion, decreased appetite, nausea or vomiting, and diarrhoea.
As the situation develops, health officials recommend vigilance and urge anyone displaying symptoms to seek testing and follow public health guidance. There has been no call at this point for additional Covid restrictions, but authorities are reminding people that new variants can still pose risks, particularly to vulnerable groups.
Overall, while ‘Stratus’ is now the most common variant in England and appears more adept at spreading, there is currently no cause for alarm regarding its severity. Continuing surveillance and public cooperation remain essential in the ongoing battle to keep Covid-19 under control.