New Strain of Coronavirus Stratus Emerges in Russia: Understanding its Potential Threat and Preventive Measures to Avoid Infection

New Strain of Coronavirus Stratus Emerges in Russia: Understanding its Potential Threat and Preventive Measures to Avoid Infection

In the ongoing battle against the coronavirus pandemic, a new variant named Stratus (XFG) has emerged in Russia, causing concern among health experts worldwide. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Stratus as a "variant under monitoring," noting a moderate growth advantage and a low global health risk based on evidence up to late June 2025.

The first case of Stratus XFG was recorded in Russia on April 24, 2025. Since then, the variant has been detected in 38 countries worldwide as of June 2025, reflecting notable regional surges in Europe, the Americas, Asia, and Oceania.

In Russia, the majority of the 114 confirmed cases are concentrated in Moscow, accounting for 54% of the total cases. Symptoms of Stratus are similar to a common cold, including fever, chills, sore throat, fatigue, and headache. However, Stratus is characterized by hoarseness or loss of voice, which sets it apart from other strains.

While there is no evidence that Stratus XFG causes a more severe illness than other Omicron variants, health experts recommend staying vigilant. They advise washing hands regularly, staying at home if feeling unwell, seeking medical attention if necessary, wearing masks in crowded places, and regularly ventilating rooms.

Preliminary data suggests that vaccines still work against this new strain. However, due to its high transmissibility, there may be an increase in cases, particularly in large cities. In addition, even mild cases of COVID-19 can result in long-term virus effects for years, with one in five sufferers experiencing long-term effects for years.

Research is ongoing on the long-term effects of COVID-19, and advancements are being made in organ transplants, with research being conducted on printing a heart. As the global fight against the pandemic continues, it is crucial to stay informed and follow health guidelines to protect ourselves and our communities.

[1] World Health Organization. (2025). Weekly epidemiological update on COVID-19 - 25 June 2025. Retrieved from https://www.who.int/publications/i/item/weekly-epidemiological-update-on-covid-19---25-june-2025

[2] Russian Ministry of Health. (2025). Statement on the detection of the Stratus (XFG) variant in Russia. Retrieved from https://minzdrav.gov.ru/news/statement-on-the-detection-of-the-stratus-xf-variant-in-russia/

[3] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2025). Stratus (XFG) variant. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/variants/variant-info/stratus.html

1. The science of organ transplants is progressing with research now focusing on printing a heart.
2. The World Health Organization (WHO) provides regular updates on COVID-19 and its variants.
3. Stratus XFG is a new COVID-19 variant that was first detected in Russia.
4. WHO classifies Stratus XFG as a "variant under monitoring," noting a moderate growth advantage but a low global health risk.
5. The first recorded case of Stratus XFG was on April 24, 2025, in Russia.
6. As of June 2025, Stratus XFG has been detected in 38 countries worldwide.
7. The majority of confirmed Stratus XFG cases are concentrated in Moscow, Russia.
8. Symptoms of Stratus are similar to a common cold but are characterized by hoarseness or loss of voice.
9. Vaccines still work against Stratus XFG, but its high transmissibility could lead to an increase in cases, particularly in large cities.
10. Even mild cases of COVID-19 can result in long-term health conditions for years.
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