New COVID Variant Stratus: Are We Facing Another Wave of Infections?
The World Health Organization (WHO) has placed a new coronavirus variant called Stratus under surveillance due to its potential impact on public health. This variant, also known as XFG, is already dominant in the United Kingdom and is spreading worldwide at an alarming rate.
What is Stratus and Why is it Dangerous?
Stratus is a hybrid strain, born from the crossing of two different coronavirus strains, a descendant of the highly contagious Omicron variant known as Frankenstein. This variant has mutations that help it evade the immune system, making it more contagious than previous strains.
Professor Lawrence Young from the University of Warwick explains that mutations in the spike protein allow Stratus to more effectively evade immune responses, which means more people are susceptible to infection. In the UK, Stratus’s share rose from about 10% in May to nearly 40% by mid-June — a massive jump in just three weeks.
Are We Facing a New Wave?
Although it is still unclear how large the new wave of infections will be, experts warn that Stratus could trigger a new COVID surge. WHO has classified this variant as under surveillance, meaning health authorities worldwide are monitoring its spread and potential consequences.
It is important to note that there is currently no evidence that Stratus causes more severe symptoms or clinical outcomes. Vaccines likely still provide protection against severe disease and hospitalization.
Another Variant on the Horizon: Nimbus
Alongside Stratus, there is a rise in another strain called Nimbus, which accounted for 2% of cases in April and jumped to 17% in June. Although Nimbus does not cause new symptoms, doctors warn it may cause a sore throat as sharp as a razor blade.
Symptoms and Dangers
The main symptoms of Stratus and Nimbus are similar to previous strains, but Nimbus can cause a razor-sharp sore throat, which is unusual. Doctors emphasize that any COVID infection can be dangerous, especially for older adults and those with weakened immune systems.
What’s Next?
While the overall number of COVID cases is declining, the emergence of these new variants could change the situation. Experts urge caution and adherence to vaccination and protective measures.
Conclusion
Five years after the pandemic began, the coronavirus continues to change its face. Stratus and Nimbus are new players on the scene with the potential to catch us off guard again. Are we ready for another wave? Or will we be surprised once more? Time will tell.
So, what do you think about these new variants? Is it time to start wearing masks again, or is this all overhyped? Drop a comment and let’s see who’s brave and who’s hiding behind the keyboard!
Sources: Blic, Daily Mail, WHO
