Overview

• Sequencing data cited by virologist Mauro Pistello show XFG (“Stratus”) now accounts for more than half of SARS‑CoV‑2 infections in Italy.
• The Health Ministry’s 21–27 August report logged 1,391 cases versus 1,091 the week before, with 17,942 tests and a 7.8% positivity rate.
• Clinicians report a return of early‑pandemic symptoms such as sudden loss of smell and taste, fever, and respiratory signs, with hoarseness noted in some recent reports.
• Hospitals are seeing some admissions mainly among over‑80s with comorbidities, while experts describe the national situation as not alarming.
• Authorities and specialists recommend an autumn push for influenza and COVID boosters, prioritizing vulnerable people over 60–70 given reduced immunity.