A recent report from Santé publique France highlights a significant rise in suspected COVID-related visits to emergency departments across the country during the week of September 15–21, 2025 (week 37). Compared with the previous week (September 8–14, week 36), hospital visits linked to COVID increased by 43% among children under 15, with 156 additional visits, and by 29% among adults, with 224 more visits.Cases among adults had already started climbing the week before. This surge comes as a new SARS-CoV-2 variant, nicknamed “Frankenstein,” becomes increasingly common in France. Here is everything you need to know about this variant, its symptoms, and how to protect yourself.What Is the Frankenstein Variant?According to the World Health Organization (WHO), this rise is associated with the emergence of a new variant called XFG. It is nicknamed “Frankenstein” because it is a recombinant, meaning it contains genetic material from two different COVID-19 subtypes, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. The WHO has classified XFG as a variant under monitoring since June 25, 2025, and it is spreading in several countries worldwide. Current evidence suggests that the public health risk remains low, and approved COVID vaccines are expected to continue preventing severe disease and symptomatic infection. Countries in Southeast Asia have also reported increases in both new cases and hospitalisations in areas where XFG has been widely detected.Although XFG appears to spread more easily than other variants, experts say it does not seem to cause more severe illness. “The vast majority of infections are mild and resolve within a few days with rest,” said Dr. Gérald Kierzek. Infectious disease specialist Anne-Claude Crémieux added that, so far, there are no signs the variant is more dangerous than previous strains.Symptoms of the Frankenstein VariantThe symptoms of XFG are similar to those seen with previous COVID-19 variants and are generally mild, resembling a common cold. These may include:Sore throatRunny or congested noseDry coughFatigue and muscle achesMild feverLoss of appetiteWhile most infections are mild, people with weakened immune systems may experience more serious illness. Anyone experiencing severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, or a high fever should seek immediate medical care.Why Is The Variant Called Frankenstein?The nickname “Frankenstein” reflects the variant’s hybrid nature, as it combines genetic material from multiple COVID-19 subtypes.Frankenstein Covid Variant: Preventing Infection and Managing SymptomsThere is no treatment specific to XFG, so care follows the same principles used for other COVID variants.Vaccination: Current COVID vaccines remain highly effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalisation, even if protection against infection may be slightly reduced.Symptom relief: Rest, hydration, fever reducers, and cough medicines can help manage mild symptoms.Protective measures: Wearing masks, maintaining hand hygiene, social distancing, and avoiding crowded places remain important.Research on the Frankenstein variant is ongoing. Since the disease can affect individuals differently, taking personal precautions and consulting a doctor when symptoms appear remain essential.
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