Physician and health educator Dr. Jen Caudle is urging the public to remain vigilant as a new COVID-19 variant, identified as XFG or “Stratus,” begins spreading in the United States and globally.
In a recent Instagram post to her more than 100,000 followers, Dr. Caudle reminded people that although pandemic restrictions have eased, the virus continues to evolve.
The XFG variant is a member of the Omicron family, which has produced several waves of infection since late 2021.
“Not surprisingly, there is a new COVID variant that we are starting to see pick up in the United States as well as other parts of the world. It is called the XFG variant, also called Stratus,” she explained. “COVID makes variants. In other words, it can mutate, it can change.”
Dr. Caudle explained that COVID symptoms can be difficult to distinguish from seasonal allergies or other viral infections, making testing a crucial tool for early detection and treatment. She also noted that antivirals are available for individuals diagnosed with COVID, underscoring the importance of timely medical intervention.
“Getting tested is going to be crucial for understanding what it is you have and don’t have,” she said, urging the public to stay up to date on vaccinations as another layer of protection.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has not yet classified Stratus as a “variant of concern,” but experts note that tracking emerging mutations remains essential to public health responses.
Dr. Caudle, who frequently uses her platform to share health advice ranging from hygiene to infectious disease updates, reminded followers: “COVID is still around here and people are still getting it.”
Her call to action—get vaccinated, get tested, and stay informed—echoes the broader medical community’s efforts to keep the public prepared as COVID-19 continues to circulate in new forms.
