XFG Variant Drives Rising Covid Activity Across U.S.

A new Covid variant, known as XFG or Stratus, has been steadily gaining ground in the United States since it was first detected in March. Health experts have been monitoring its spread closely as it begins to shape current infection trends. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), national wastewater surveillance has shown a notable rise in viral activity. As of the week of September 7, the overall Covid activity level was classified as high, up from moderate just one week earlier.

The increase in cases is largely linked to the spread of the XFG variant. Early research suggests that XFG may be more contagious than earlier strains, a factor that helps explain its rapid dominance. Scientists say this higher transmissibility is due to mutations in the spike protein, which allow the virus to partially evade antibodies. These antibodies are typically generated either through prior infection or vaccination, meaning XFG can find ways to bypass existing immune defenses.

Despite this, public health officials emphasize that current evidence does not indicate the XFG variant is more deadly than previous versions of Covid. The primary concern remains its ability to spread more quickly, leading to higher infection rates. Increased transmission can still have serious effects, especially among vulnerable populations such as older adults, those with underlying conditions, or the unvaccinated. Hospitals and clinics are being urged to prepare for a potential uptick in cases over the coming weeks.

Health authorities continue to encourage preventive measures, including updated vaccines, indoor ventilation, and mask-wearing in crowded settings when local transmission rates are high. These steps remain effective in reducing risk. The rise of XFG underscores how Covid continues to evolve. While not more lethal, its greater contagiousness serves as a reminder that the pandemic’s impact is far from over.