As Americans settle into the new year, a new dominant force has emerged in the ongoing battle against COVID-19. The Stratus COVID variant (scientifically known as XFG) has officially overtaken previous strains to become the predominant version of the virus circulating in the United States. According to the latest data released by the CDC this week, the XFG variant is now driving a significant COVID-19 winter surge 2026, with cases rising in at least 45 states. While infection rates are climbing following the holiday season, infectious disease experts are offering a silver lining: symptoms appear to remain largely confined to the upper respiratory tract.

The Rise of the 'Stratus' XFG Variant in 2026

First detected in Southeast Asia in early 2025, the XFG variant—dubbed "Stratus" for its cloud-like ability to cover widespread areas rapidly—has steadily outpaced competitors like the "Nimbus" (NB.1.8.1) strain. As of January 9, 2026, COVID wastewater data CDC reports indicate that Stratus accounts for approximately 61% to 70% of all new sequenced cases nationwide.

Viral evolution experts explain that XFG is a "recombinant" variant, born from a genetic mashup of two previous Omicron sublineages, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. This genetic remix has gifted Stratus with a distinct growth advantage, allowing it to bind more tightly to human cells and evade some antibody protection from prior infections. However, despite its high transmissibility, it has not shown signs of causing more severe disease than its Omicron predecessors.

Latest Stratus COVID Variant Symptoms

One of the most pressing questions for Americans this winter is: How does Stratus feel? Unlike the "razor blade" sore throat characterized by the Nimbus variant late last year, Stratus COVID variant symptoms are presenting more like a severe head cold for most vaccinated or previously infected individuals.

According to doctors treating patients during this latest COVID news 2026 cycle, the most common indicators include:

  • Sore throat: Typically a scratchy or irritated sensation rather than severe pain.
  • Severe Congestion: Runny or stuffy nose is almost universal with this strain.
  • Persistent Cough: A dry, nagging cough that can linger for weeks.
  • Fatigue: distinctive tiredness that hits suddenly.
  • Headache and Muscle Aches: Generalized body soreness.

Notably, the classic loss of taste and smell is becoming increasingly rare with the XFG variant 2026. Gastrointestinal issues like nausea remain present but are less frequent than respiratory symptoms.

Upper Respiratory vs. Pneumonia: What's Changed?

A crucial distinction in the 2026 landscape of COVID-19 is the location of the infection. Early pandemic waves, particularly Delta, were notorious for attacking the lungs and causing severe pneumonia. In contrast, the Omicron subvariant XFG tends to replicate efficiently in the upper airways (nose and throat) rather than deep in the lungs.

Dr. Suraj Saggar, an infectious disease specialist, noted in recent reports that "Current variants mainly cause upper respiratory COVID symptoms." This shift means that while patients may feel miserable with congestion and sinus pressure, the risk of dangerous oxygen deprivation and severe pneumonia has dropped significantly for the general population. However, providers warn that vulnerable groups—including the elderly and immunocompromised—should still monitor their blood oxygen levels if they test positive.

Navigating the 2026 Winter Surge

With the virus circulating at high levels across 45 states, avoiding infection entirely can be difficult. The COVID-19 winter surge 2026 is being fueled not just by the variant's transmissibility, but by the return to school and work after winter gatherings. Public health officials emphasize that while Stratus is milder for many, it can still disrupt daily life and pose risks to those with underlying conditions.

To stay safe, experts recommend keeping rapid tests handy, as they remain effective at detecting XFG. If you develop symptoms, early testing is vital, especially for accessing antiviral treatments like Paxlovid, which remain highly effective against this new strain. As we move further into January, the "Stratus" wave is expected to peak, making the next few weeks critical for practicing basic hygiene and staying home when sick.