Jim Moore / October 2, 2025
COVID-19 activity in New York is on the rise again, with state wastewater data showing viral levels well above the national average. Public health officials say the uptick is being driven largely by the spread of a new variant, known as XFG or “Stratus.”
Rising Wastewater Signals
Fifteen New York counties, including the Bronx, Queens, Erie, and Monroe, recently reported “very high” concentrations of the virus in wastewater samples. These levels are among the highest in the country, while much of the U.S. is still reporting “moderate” activity. Wastewater surveillance has become a key early-warning system for tracking COVID-19 trends, often detecting spikes in cases days before they appear in hospital data.
The Stratus Variant
The XFG “Stratus” variant now accounts for the vast majority of infections, displacing earlier Omicron strains. Estimates show it represents between 73% and 85% of cases nationwide. While experts say Stratus appears to spread more easily and may evade some immune protections, there is no current evidence that it causes more severe illness than previous variants.
Doctors have noted that some patients infected with Stratus report unusually harsh sore throats, described as more severe than those seen with prior strains. The World Health Organization classifies the variant as “under monitoring,” rather than a variant of concern.
Hospitalizations Stable, But Concerns Remain
Despite the surge in wastewater data, hospital visits tied to COVID-19 remain steady across much of the state. Still, health officials caution that at-home testing and underreporting make it difficult to get a complete picture of current case levels.
As respiratory virus season approaches, experts warn the combination of COVID-19, influenza, and RSV could once again strain healthcare systems. Health officials continue to recommend updated vaccinations, improved indoor air circulation, and prompt medical care for individuals who develop worsening symptoms.
