Jul 11, 2025

What is Stratus? 7 Facts about the New COVID-19 Variant

Kuhu Verma

What is Stratus?

Stratus isn’t an official WHO label but a nickname for KP.3, a subvariant within the JN.1 lineage.

Source: canva

Fast-Spreading

Stratus has quickly become the most reported variant in the UK, outpacing other strains in immunity to vaccine.

Source: canva

Vaccine Resistance

Preliminary data suggests Stratus has changes in its spike protein that help it evade antibodies, making it potentially more vaccine-resistant than earlier Omicron variants.

Source: canva

FliRT Mutation Family

Stratus is part of the FLiRT mutation family, known for immune evasion.

Source: canva

Mild Symptoms

Despite its immune-evasive nature, there’s no evidence yet that Stratus causes more severe illness.

Source: canva

Under close watch

High transmissibility plus immune escape might lead to more breakthrough infections.

Source: canva

What can I do?

Continue basic precautions—mask in crowded spaces, stay updated on boosters, and test if symptomatic.

Source: canva

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