Published on Sep 09, 2025 | 1:32 PM
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As fall approaches, COVID-19 is once again making headlines. Across much of the United States, cases are rising sharply—driven by a new variant nicknamed “Stratus” (XFG). Emergency room visits are climbing, particularly in the West and South, and families are left sorting through mixed messages about vaccines, risk, and how to stay safe. While concerning, this pattern isn’t new. COVID has surged every summer since the pandemic began, and experts remind us that the virus is constantly evolving. Still, with new mutations and shifting vaccination guidelines, it’s understandable to feel uncertain. Let’s break down what’s happening with the Stratus variant, what symptoms to watch for, and how best to protect yourself and your loved ones this season.
The XFG variant, better known as “Stratus,” is part of the Omicron family. It’s a recombinant, meaning it contains genetic material from two earlier strains. This makes it especially good at binding to cells and spreading quickly from person to person. By late summer, Stratus had overtaken earlier strains like Nimbus (NB.1.8.1) to become the dominant variant in the U.S., showing up in more than 75% of wastewater samples nationwide. States like California, Texas, Utah, and South Carolina are reporting the highest activity levels. The good news? Current evidence shows Stratus is not causing more severe illness than other recent Omicron strains. The challenge is its high transmissibility—which means more people are getting infected at once, leading to pressure on hospitals and clinics.
So far, Stratus symptoms look very similar to other recent Omicron variants. Common signs include:
It’s important to note: symptoms alone can’t confirm COVID. Testing is still the best way to know, especially since symptoms overlap with cold, flu, and allergies. For people at high risk of severe illness—including adults over 65, those who are immunocompromised, or those with underlying conditions—antiviral treatments like Paxlovid can be lifesaving when started early.
The updated COVID-19 vaccines for 2025–2026 are designed to cover the latest Omicron family strains, including Stratus. According to experts, these shots are expected to offer strong protection against severe illness, hospitalization, and death. That said, eligibility has shifted. The FDA currently authorizes the updated vaccines primarily for:
Others may still be able to access the vaccine but may need a doctor’s prescription. This can create barriers for young children, pregnant women, and generally healthy adults. Professional organizations like the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists continue to recommend vaccination for children and pregnant or lactating women, citing strong safety data.
COVID safety may feel routine by now, but the basics remain powerful. Here’s what you can do:
At CallOnDoc, we understand how confusing COVID updates can feel. That’s why we make healthcare simple, accessible, and judgment-free:
Whether you’re seeking peace of mind, treatment for symptoms, or advice about vaccines, we’re here to help you navigate this fall safely.
Your time is worth more than a waiting room chair. Skip the waiting room. Anytime, anywhere. 15 minutes.
COVID isn’t going away, but neither is our ability to adapt. The Stratus variant is highly contagious, but vaccines, testing, and early treatment remain powerful tools. By staying informed and proactive, you can protect yourself, your family, and your community—without the overwhelm. And if questions come up along the way, remember: a doctor is in your pocket with CallOnDoc.
Shelly House, FNP, is a Family Nurse Practitioner and Call-On-Doc’s trusted medical education voice. With extensive experience in telehealth and patient-centered care, Ms. House is dedicated to making complex health topics simple and accessible. Through evidence-based content, provider collaboration, and a passion for empowering patients, her mission is to break down barriers to healthcare by delivering clear, compassionate, and practical medical guidance.
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