New virus strain spreads in multiple states

A new Covid variant, known as XFG or “Stratus,” is driving a surge in cases across the United States, with infections peaking in multiple states.

First detected in March, XFG has quickly spread nationwide. CDC data now shows Covid wastewater activity reached “high” levels nationally as of September 7, rising from “moderate” just a week earlier.

The increase is largely fueled by XFG, which is considered more contagious than earlier variants. Scientists say its spike protein mutations allow it to bypass immunity from past infections and vaccines, though it does not appear more deadly.

As of September 16, 29 states reported “high” or “very high” viral activity in wastewater. Infections are confirmed to be growing in nine states, including Minnesota, Michigan, New York, and Delaware.

XFG was first identified in Southeast Asia in January before arriving in the US two months later. While it made up only 3% of cases in May, it now accounts for 80% of infections nationwide. It is a hybrid of two Omicron strains, giving it stronger binding ability to human cells.

Symptoms remain similar to earlier variants, including fever, cough, fatigue, loss of taste or smell, and gastrointestinal issues. South Dakota currently shows “very high” activity, while Minnesota and Delaware report “high” levels.

Despite rapid spread, recent data shows signs of slowing. Hospitalizations, test positivity, and emergency visits all declined in mid-September, suggesting the wave may be stabilizing.