New Variant of COVID-19: Essential Facts to Understand
The SARS-CoV-2 variant XFG, also known as the "Stratus" variant, has been making headlines recently due to its rapid spread in Canada and globally. This variant was first reported in Southeast Asia and has since been identified as the most prevalent variant in Canada's federal variant monitoring.
The Stratus variant, which is a subvariant of the Omicron variant of COVID-19, was named by University of Guelph biologist T. Ryan Gregory. Unlike many previous subvariants, Stratus shows signs of causing a significant increase in infections. However, current data do not indicate that the XFG variant leads to more severe illness or deaths than other variants in circulation.
The latest wastewater monitoring data shows moderate COVID-19 activity nationwide in Canada, with higher levels in Manitoba, Newfoundland and Labrador. Just over 1,600 cases of COVID-19 were detected nationally in the first week of September, with 8.5 per cent of tests positive and one hospitalization per 100,000 in the population.
According to health authorities like the World Health Organization (WHO), the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC), and Germany's Robert Koch Institute, the additional risk from XFG to public health is low and does not expect significant impacts on COVID-19 vaccine effectiveness against severe disease.
The reason for the throat soreness associated with the Nimbus variant, another subvariant, is that the variant replicates in the throat lining, causing cellular damage. Anecdotal reports suggest that the Nimbus variant can cause a sharp, 'razor blade' type of soreness in the throat. Over-the-counter lozenges, saline sprays, plenty of fluids, and a humidifier may help with discomfort caused by the Nimbus variant.
Ventilation, air filtration, well-fitting N95 masks, and avoiding high-risk exposure are variant-proof measures, according to T. Ryan Gregory. Seeking out a COVID-19 test and potential medical attention is recommended if symptoms do not improve.
Since late 2021, Omicron has remained the latest Greek-letter distinction for COVID variants. The risks of the XFG variant haven't yet proven to be major at the global level, according to a June report by the World Health Organization. The initial threat assessments by the WHO found the new health risks introduced by XFG to be "low at the global level."
It's important to note that currently approved COVID-19 vaccines are expected to remain effective against the XFG variant against symptomatic and severe disease. The XFG is a subvariant of the Omicron variant, and the vaccines have proven to be effective against the Omicron variant.
In conclusion, while the XFG variant is spreading rapidly, current data does not indicate that it leads to more severe illness or deaths than other variants in circulation. The variant-proof measures of ventilation, air filtration, well-fitting N95 masks, and avoiding high-risk exposure remain crucial in preventing the spread of COVID-19, regardless of the variant. It's always recommended to seek medical attention if symptoms do not improve and to stay informed about the latest updates regarding the XFG variant.
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