The coronavirus continues to evolve, and a new strain named Stratus is now drawing attention worldwide. First identified in Southeast Asia earlier this year, the variant has spread quickly and is currently responsible for a surge in cases across several U.S. states.

Health authorities, including the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), have flagged Stratus as a variant under monitoring due to its ability to spread more efficiently and bypass parts of the body’s immune defenses. Reports show that by mid-September, Stratus had become the predominant variant detected in U.S. wastewater samples, particularly in states like New York, New Jersey, Michigan, Wisconsin, and both Dakotas.

Unlike earlier strains, such as the highly infectious Nimbus variant, Stratus has undergone mutations that make it harder for unvaccinated or previously uninfected individuals to fight off. While those who are vaccinated often experience mild illness, the variant is still causing concern due to its wide range of symptoms.

Symptoms of the Stratus Variant

People infected with Stratus may develop the typical signs of COVID-19, but the intensity and combination of symptoms can vary. Commonly reported issues include:

• Persistent fatigue and fever

• Dry, lingering cough

• Sore or scratchy throat

• Shortness of breath or chest tightness

• Headaches and muscle aches

• Digestive discomfort such as nausea or upset stomach

• Loss of taste or smell

• Mental fog or difficulty concentrating (“brain fog”)

While most cases resolve without hospitalization, experts caution that ignoring severe signs—such as a high fever lasting over three days or worsening breathing problems—can be dangerous. In such cases, medical attention is strongly recommended.

Staying Safe Against Stratus

Public health experts continue to emphasize preventive measures to reduce the spread of the virus. These include:

• Wearing a mask in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces

• Washing hands frequently with soap and water

• Using air purifiers or keeping windows open for ventilation

• Limiting close contact when local infection rates are high

• Checking regional COVID-19 trends before traveling

Although the pandemic may feel like it’s behind us, the emergence of new strains such as Stratus shows that the virus is still evolving. Staying alert to symptoms and maintaining simple precautions can help protect both individuals and communities.