Scientists Warn: Most Infectious Covid Strain Yet Is Now Dominating

A new, highly infectious COVID-19 variant called “Stratus” (scientifically XFG) is now dominant in the UK, raising concern among experts. According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), Stratus made up 40% of cases in mid-June, rising sharply from just 10% in May.

Stratus, a “recombinant” strain descended from Omicron, emerged when a person was infected with two Covid strains at once. Professor Lawrence Young said its subvariants, XFG and XFG.3, are “rapidly spreading” due to “new spike mutations” that help them evade the immune system. With fewer people getting booster shots and lower recent infection rates, immunity has waned, making more people vulnerable.

Though Stratus spreads fast, there’s “no evidence” it causes more severe illness. Vaccines are still believed to protect against serious outcomes. The World Health Organization recently labeled it a “variant under monitoring,” citing its global growth—now responsible for 22% of worldwide cases.

Another strain, Nimbus, is also on the rise, going from 2% of UK cases in April to 17% in June. It’s been linked to a “razor blade” sore throat and swollen glands, but overall COVID cases are down. Still, experts stress the risk remains, especially for the vulnerable.

Related Posts

Frightening reason Hurricane Erin is so intense as urgent warnings issued to these parts of the US

Originally a Category 1 storm, Erin shocked forecasters by exploding into a rare Category 5 hurricane within just 24 hours. Though it has since weakened, it “remains…

Echoes of Abandonment: A Journey from Orphanage to Reunion

Bernardo Briceño’s earliest memories were marked by neglect and fear. As a toddler in a cold orphanage, he recalled “how his tiny body shook in the gloomy…

This Root Is A Natural Treasure with Multiple Benefits

Licorice root has long been valued in traditional medicine, described as “more than just a tasty ingredient—it offers a range of medicinal benefits when consumed responsibly.” It…

Researchers Explore Potential Dementia Risk Linked to Gabapentin

Gabapentin is an FDA-approved anticonvulsant used for seizures and nerve pain, but it’s also prescribed “off-label” for conditions like fibromyalgia, insomnia, and anxiety. It’s considered safer than…

I Cooked a Festive Dinner for 20 People for My Husband’s Birthday — Then He Ditched Me to Celebrate at a Bar

I thought I was being a good wife, planning Todd’s 35th birthday dinner. But just before guests arrived, he said he was skipping it to watch the…

20-year-old girl suffered ca.rdiac arrest and or.gan failure after drinking this drink

On what seemed like a normal day, 20-year-old fitness lover Jazmin Garza suddenly collapsed at the gym. Her boyfriend realized her “heart and breathing had stopped” and…

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *