A new COVID variant is spreading. Symptoms? Do tests still work? Info in NC

A new COVID-19 variant has quickly emerged as dominant in a matter of months, according to data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

XFG, an omicron subvariant also known as “Stratus,” has been detected in 38 countries and is spreading rapidly, according to the CDC.

Here’s what you need to know about XFG and how to stay safe as it spreads.

Has the new COVID variant reached NC?

Most likely. By late August, the CDC estimated XFG made up as much as 78% of total cases in the U.S. For comparison, the new variant made up just 14% of total cases two months prior.

Dr. David Weber, an infectious disease specialist at the UNC School of Medicine, told The Charlotte Observer last month that there could be a “small bump” in cases with students across the state returning to school.

Data from the N.C. Department of Health and Human Services show that there was a steady increase in emergency department visits due to COVID-like symptoms every week from Aug. 2 to Sept. 6.

“With kids going back to college and others, I wouldn’t be surprised if we see a continued bump in COVID, and eventually, of course, when we get towards winter, we’re going to see flu, RSV and other respiratory diseases.”

What are the symptoms of the new variant?

The symptoms of XFG closely resemble those of other COVID variants, Weber said, and may include:

• Fever or chills
• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• Fatigue
• Muscle or body aches
• Headache
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Congestion or runny nose
• Nausea or vomiting
• Diarrhea

Will at-home COVID tests detect the new variant?

Yes. Studies have shown rapid antigen tests can detect a variety of COVID variants, including XFG, according to iHealth Labs, a healthcare product manufacturer.

The Food and Drug Administration (FDA) advises anyone experiencing COVID-19 symptoms to test right away. If you were recently exposed but aren’t showing symptoms, the agency recommends waiting at least five full days before taking a test.

A positive result on an at-home test can be considered a reliable indicator that you have COVID-19. If your first test comes back negative, the FDA suggests testing again after 48 hours to be sure.

Will current COVID vaccines protect against the new variant?

Yes, since XFG is an omicron subvariant covered by the updated vaccines, they are expected to provide strong protection, Weber previously told the Observer.

He explained that mRNA vaccines generally protect against infection for about three months and against severe illness for about six months, which is why he recommends most people wait until fall for their next dose.

However, if cases start to climb in the U.S., he advises immunocompromised or older individuals to get the current shot now and another in the fall.

Can you get the COVID vaccine in NC?

It depends. State health officials recently issued a standing order so people 65 and older and adults with certain high-risk conditions can get the vaccine at participating pharmacies without a prescription.

According to Dr. David Wohl, an infectious disease specialist at UNC Health, most pharmacies in North Carolina will likely ask you if you fall into one of those two groups before giving you the vaccine. If you don’t, you could be turned away.

However, the CDC’s Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices approved a significant change: COVID-19 vaccination will no longer be universally “recommended” for all Americans, but instead encouraged through “shared clinical decision making,” NPR reported. But it’s still unclear what that will involve or how it might affect access.

“My advice to people is to call your pharmacy and tell them your situation and see what they say,” Wohl said. “If they say “yes,” great. If not, you’ll probably have to call a clinic.”

How to avoid COVID infection

You can use these tips from the CDC to protect yourself:

• Wear a mask: Respiratory illnesses spread through the air. A mask offers protection — especially in crowded indoor spaces where cases often climb this time of year.
• Stay current on vaccines: Though the official recommendation from the CDC has been lifted, most health professional still recommend the vaccine for most people older than 6 months.
• Seek treatment quickly: Effective oral antivirals are available for both flu and COVID-19, but timing is key. For flu, treatment should start within 48 hours of symptoms; for COVID-19, within five days, Weber said.
• Stick with the basics: Cover coughs and sneezes, wash hands often (or use sanitizer when soap and water aren’t available), keep air circulating by opening windows and stay home if you’re sick.

This story was originally published September 22, 2025 at 3:41 PM with the headline "A new COVID variant is spreading. Symptoms? Do tests still work? Info in NC."

Evan Moore

The Charlotte Observer

Evan Moore is a service journalism reporter for the Charlotte Observer. He grew up in Denver, North Carolina, where he previously worked as a reporter for the Denver Citizen, and is a UNC Charlotte graduate.