The US is experiencing a growing trend of COVID-19 cases, with 45 states seeing an increase in infections since August 5. The test positivity rate remains relatively low, ranging from 5% to 9.9%. However, the Southeast region, particularly Louisiana, has seen higher wastewater activity due to a “very high” amount.
The XFG ‘stratus’ variant is now responsible for 14% of US cases, making it the third-most prevalent nationwide. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this variant may evade immune defenses, but current COVID-19 vaccines are still effective against symptomatic and severe disease.
Symptoms of the ‘stratus’ variant have not been specifically linked, although some reports suggest hoarseness. The rising cases are attributed to waning vaccination protection, natural immunity loss, and ongoing viral mutations. As a result, another summer of illness could be on the horizon unless measures are taken to combat the spread.
Source: https://www.axios.com/2025/08/13/covid-19-symptoms-stratus-variant-states-highest-cases