Overview

• Stratus (XFG and XFG.3) now accounts for the largest share of sequenced infections in the UK, with Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) also common in recent surveillance data.
• Official figures show test positivity rising from 7.6% to 8.4% week over week and hospital admissions increasing from 2.00 to 2.73 per 100,000 in England.
• Clinicians highlight two frequently reported signs with recent infections: a hoarse or raspy voice linked to Stratus and a severe “razor blade” sore throat reported with Nimbus.
• UKHSA says current data does not indicate greater severity from these lineages and vaccines remain protective against serious illness; WHO lists XFG as a variant under monitoring with low global risk.
• Public guidance urges people with symptoms to avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, stay home if possible, wear face coverings in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, and take up winter vaccinations if eligible.