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2h ago

UKHSA Warns People With Symptoms to Avoid Contact as 'Stratus' Variant Leads England’s Cases

WHO classifies XFG as a variant under monitoring with a low global risk assessment.

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Overview

  • XFG (Stratus) and its offshoots account for about 77% of sequenced COVID-19 cases in England, up from roughly 75% the previous week, according to UKHSA data.
  • UKHSA advises people who feel unwell or have a high temperature to stay home if possible and to avoid contact with vulnerable individuals, with Living with COVID guidance for those who must go out.
  • Positivity rose from 7.6% to 8.4% week-on-week and hospital admissions increased from 2.00 to 2.73 per 100,000, reflecting a modest seasonal uptick.
  • Clinicians report a hoarse or raspy voice as a frequent feature of Stratus infections, while NB.1.8.1 (Nimbus) has been linked to a severe 'razor blade' sore throat in some patients.
  • Health agencies stress vaccination for eligible groups as the best protection, and WHO is also closely monitoring BA.3.2 due to lab evidence of increased antibody evasion.