COVID-19 Cases Rise in California Amid Spread of 'Stratus' Variant

COVID-19 cases are surging in Texas due to the highly contagious Stratus variant, an offshoot of Omicron, which now accounts for three-fourths of cases in the U.S. The variant causes symptoms similar to previous strains, and while the WHO does not see it as an additional threat, health officials urge precautions. Confusion remains over vaccine eligibility, with new guidelines limiting access for some groups, though updated vaccines are on the way. Monitoring continues through wastewater testing and hospital reports.