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Stratus Variant

All articles tagged with #stratus variant

health4 months ago

Summer colds and COVID-19: Understanding the connection

Summer viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV are still circulating, with COVID-19 trending up and the new 'stratus' variant present. Despite common myths, viruses can spread in summer, especially indoors. Preventive measures such as good hygiene, outdoor activities, and vaccination remain important, particularly for vulnerable groups and children. Timing of COVID-19 boosters should consider individual risk and seasonal patterns.

health4 months ago

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.

health4 months ago

Understanding Summer Colds and the Stratus COVID-19 Variant

Summer viruses like COVID-19, flu, and RSV are still circulating, with COVID-19 trending up due to the emerging stratus variant, which is only marginally better at evading immunity. Despite common myths, viruses can spread in summer, especially indoors. Preventive measures such as vaccination, good hygiene, and staying outside when possible remain important. Experts suggest timing COVID-19 boosters based on individual risk and upcoming activities, with higher caution for vulnerable groups.

health5 months ago

US Faces Rising COVID Cases and 'Stratus' Variant Surge

COVID-19 rates are rising nationwide, especially in California due to the highly contagious Stratus variant, with Los Angeles experiencing its highest wastewater levels since February. The CDC has not recommended updated COVID shots for students, a decision criticized by health experts, while vaccination rates remain low despite evidence of booster effectiveness. The situation highlights ongoing challenges in managing the pandemic amid evolving virus strains and policy debates.

health5 months ago

US States Most Affected by Rising COVID 'Stratus' and New Variants

Twelve U.S. states are experiencing higher COVID-19 positivity rates amid a surge driven by the 'stratus' variant, which now accounts for 14% of cases nationwide. The CDC reports an overall increasing trend in cases across 45 states, with wastewater data indicating a rise in viral activity, especially in the Southeast. The 'stratus' variant may evade immune defenses but current vaccines are still expected to be effective against severe disease. No specific symptoms are linked to this variant, though hoarseness has been noted.

health5 months ago

New COVID Variant 'Stratus' Spreading with Unique Symptoms

The new COVID-19 variant 'Stratus' (XFG) has become the third most common strain in the U.S., particularly in New York, and may cause a distinctive symptom of hoarseness, alongside other typical symptoms. It appears to evade immunity more effectively and accounts for 14% of cases as of late June, with infection rates rising across many states. Despite low viral activity nationally, some states experience high levels, and vaccination remains crucial for protection against severe illness.