COVID-19 cases are on the rise across the United States, driven by a new Omicron subvariant, XFG, also known as “Stratus.”

Now the dominant strain nationwide, “Stratus,” has been spreading quickly in states like California.

According to Dr. Robert Leon Guerrero, Chief Medical Officer for the Department of Public Health and Social Services, the variant has likely already made its way to Guam.

“The variant was first described in Asia back in January of this year. So obviously, we were probably hit before the mainland. The mainland only started seeing it just in the past couple of months,” said Dr. Leon Guerrero. 

He says symptoms remain consistent with other Omicron series: Fever, fatigue, congestion, cough, body aches, loss of taste and smell, and in some cases, sore throat dubbed as “razor-blade throat.” 

And while the “Stratus” variant is emerging in the states, here at home, August marks respiratory virus season, with increases in RSV, influenza A & B, and COVID-19—often peaking between August and November, earlier than the mainland’s usual season of November through February.

“We have actually been seeing it, and I do admit patients, and I have been admitting a few RSV cases right now. So, we’re seeing it already,” added Leon Guerrero. 

Meantime, this comes amid a new phase in vaccine guidance. 

The Food and Drug Administration recently approved updated COVID-19 shots for the fall, but with narrower eligibility, targeting those 65 and older, along with children and adults who have at least one underlying condition that puts them at higher risk of severe illness.

Dr. Leon Guerrero notes that, for the first time in three decades, leading medical groups: The American Academy of Pediatrics and the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, have issued recommendations that differ from the advisory committee on immunization practices.

“AAP recommends for COVID, they recommend any child 6 months and two years to get the vaccine. Those that are over two years who have underlying health problems get the vaccine. ACOG also recommends pregnant ladies get the vaccine, which is counter to what the ACIP is saying, thanks to the new leadership,” said Leon Guerrero. 

Leon Guerrero strongly encouraged vaccination, stressing that the 2024–2025 formula is expected to protect against the “Stratus” variant and help prevent severe infection or death.

As for staying healthy through the “–ber” months, his advice is simple: Stick to the basics. Wash hands often, practice social distancing, wear a mask in crowded spaces, and stay home if you’re sick.