The new 'Frankenstein' variant of COVID-19 is spreading rapidly. It has been largely ignored, however, this new SARS-CoV-2 variant is causing high levels of sickness absence in nurseries, schools and care facilities and will also increase the number of long COVID patients. It is the same as the Stratus variant, scientifically known as XFG. It is nicknamed as 'Frankenstein'. Many are also calling this variant the "Halloween Monster in the Air", as it has led to a 37% spike in hospital visits in France. What Is Happening In The World?In a very short time, the "Stratus" variant has become the dominant strain. In Germany, it has accounted for 84% of identified SARS-CoV-2 variants at the beginning of October 2025. This variant is also the dominant one in Austria and Switzerland, making up for about 80% of viral load in wastewater. As per the Robert Koch Institute (RKI), it has also led to rise in acute respiratory illnesses since September. The Frankenstein virus has affected people across ages.Why Is It Called 'Frankenstein' Variant?The new variant gets its name 'Frankenstein' due to its genetic fusion of components from different virus types, which makes it an accurate description of a genetic monster. The new 'Frankenstein' Covid variant is a recombinant variant formed from the Omicron lineages LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. The fusion has led to a more resistant and "fitter" strain. As per the World Health Organization (WHO), the rise in Covid-19 cases are also associated with the same variant. It has been classified by the WHO as a variant under monitoring since June 25, 2025. The evidence while show that the additional public health risk is low worldwide, the mutation makes it more contagious, thus the growing number of cases. What Makes The New 'Frankenstein' Covid Variant So Unique?The symptoms, while some of them are quite similar to that of we know from COVID-19, there are some unusual symptoms too, which were often associated with a common cold:Sore throatRunny nose and congestionDry coughFatigue and muscle painMild feverLoss of appetiteShortness of breathChest painHigh fever in people with lower or weakened immunity systemWhat Are The Ways You Could Prevent The New 'Frankenstein' Covid Variant?At present, there is no specific treatment available for the Frankenstein variant. The approach remains similar to that for other COVID-19 strains, focusing on managing symptoms according to how the illness progresses.Vaccination: Current vaccines are believed to help reduce the risk of severe illness and hospitalization. While their effectiveness may slightly decrease against new variants, they continue to play a crucial role in prevention.Supportive care: Simple measures such as taking fever-reducing medications, staying well-hydrated, getting enough rest, and using cough suppressants can help ease symptoms.Preventive practices: Wearing a mask, maintaining proper hand hygiene, avoiding crowded spaces, and keeping a safe distance from others remain key protective steps.As research on the Frankenstein variant continues, individual protective measures are vital. Because the illness can affect each person differently, it’s important to consult a healthcare professional if symptoms appear.
Email
Google
Facebook Email Google Facebook