Stratus Variant Drives COVID Uptick Across U.S. States

A new COVID-19 variant known as Stratus (XFG) is driving a summer increase in cases across several U.S. states, including Florida, Illinois, and Michigan, with hoarseness as a distinguishing symptom. CDC data from late June shows Stratus accounted for 14% of national cases, and projections indicate infections are rising or likely to rise in 40 states, particularly in the South, Mid-Atlantic, Northeast, and Midwest. Wastewater surveillance indicates that national COVID-19 viral activity remains low, though local upticks are occurring. In Florida, both Nimbus and Stratus variants are contributing to the surge, prompting renewed reminders about vaccinations for vulnerable populations as schools prepare to reopen. Health authorities continue to monitor variant spread and emphasize preventive measures. Notably, discussion of COVID-19 surges in Ireland and specific details about North Carolina's COVID-19 activity have been omitted in newer reports.