The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a warning after infections of the Omicron variant

American Covid Strain Dominates Irish Cases as Hospital Admissions Rise

The Health Service Executive (HSE) has issued a warning after infections of the Omicron variant XFG, nicknamed American Covid or Stratus, caused a surge in hospitalisations across Ireland. The strain currently accounts for 55% of all tested cases in Ireland. Public health data shows recorded virus cases reached 479 in the final week of September, climbing from 319 the previous week and 277 the week before that.

Hospital Impacts and Regional Metrics Across Two Jurisdictions

While routine community testing has largely ended, hospital admissions provide a clearer picture of viral transmission. The HSE recorded 187 hospitalisations and one death in Ireland during the final week of September. Across the Irish Sea, the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) reported that the rate of positive results inside hospitals increased from 5.9% to 7% last month, as detailed by Metro.co.uk. Metro.co.uk also noted that overall hospital admissions in England rose by nearly 50%, with the London region recording the steepest regional increase at 79%. The Daily Mail reported that weekly hospital admissions for England rose from 0.81 to 1.20 per 100,000, which the UKHSA classifies as a baseline level, while admissions among adults aged 85 and older jumped from 7.08 to 12.43 per 100,000 in London.

Distinct Symptoms of the Stratus Variant

Clinical observations from medical professionals indicate that the XFG variant presents specific diagnostic signs. Writing in NowPatient, pharmacist Daniel Cheung identified hoarseness and a scratchy or raspy voice as unique symptoms distinguishing Stratus from other Covid strains. Cheung added that patients commonly experience a dry cough, sore throat, fever, fatigue, muscle aches, and a loss of taste and smell. Dr. Renée Hoenderkamp told the Daily Mail that patient presentations in primary care have shifted toward sore throats, headaches, runny noses, and fatigue, describing the clinical picture as very flu-like.

HSE Advises Five Day Isolation for Positive Tests

Health authorities recommend specific isolation periods for individuals who test positive for the virus. The HSE advises that anyone receiving a positive test result should stay at home and avoid contact with others for five days. Individuals may leave home after five days if their symptoms have fully or mostly resolved for the preceding 48 hours. Public health guidance dictates that positive individuals must avoid contact with high-risk persons for ten days following the onset of initial symptoms. In England, people particularly at risk—including those aged 75, residents in care homes for older adults, and immunosuppressed persons—are being urged to get vaccinated.

Frequently Asked Questions About the Stratus Variant

What official name do scientists use for American Covid?

The strain is officially known as the Omicron strain XFG or Stratus.

How many weekly cases did the HSE record in Ireland before the surge?

The HSE recorded 277 cases two weeks prior to the peak, which rose to 319 cases the following week and reached 479 cases in the most recent reporting period at the end of September.

Which demographic groups are urged to get vaccinated in England?

According to the UKHSA reported by Metro.co.uk, individuals particularly at risk include people aged 75, residents in care homes for older adults, and immunosuppressed individuals.