Italy is reporting a moderate rise in COVID-19 infections following the post-holiday period, with the new Stratus variant (XFG) now accounting for over 50% of recorded cases. The increase has prompted public health experts to encourage dual vaccinations for COVID-19 and influenza ahead of autumn, particularly among older and vulnerable populations.
According to Italy’s Istituto Superiore di Sanità (ISS), the uptick in cases is not considered alarming, but health officials are closely monitoring trends as similar rises have also been reported in countries such as Greece, Ireland, Romania, and France. In Italy, hospitalizations are mostly limited to individuals over 80 with pre-existing conditions.
Dominance of the Stratus Variant
The dominant strain, referred to as XFG or “Stratus,” is a recombinant variant originating in the United States. It has become the most prevalent strain in Italy, surpassing other mutations in circulation. During the week of August 21–27, Italy recorded 1,391 new COVID-19 cases, compared to 1,091 the previous week, according to the Ministry of Health.
“The variant that is currently the most prevalent, already accounting for over 50% of infections, is XFG or ‘Stratus,’ which arrived from the US—the result of the recombination of other mutations—and is now dominant here too,” said Mauro Pistello, Director of the Virology Unit at the University Hospital of Pisa and a co-founder of the ISS sequencing network.
Return of Early Pandemic Symptoms
Medical professionals are noting the reappearance of early pandemic symptoms in patients who test positive. “Many complain of a sudden loss of smell and taste,” said Pistello, attributing it to the virus’s tendency to compromise sensory pathways. He added that fever, including high-grade fevers, and respiratory symptoms remain common.
While the current situation is stable, health experts are advising caution due to the natural lifecycle of immunity and waning protection over time, particularly among the elderly. With COVID-19 activity expected to persist into the colder months, the emphasis has shifted to preventative measures.
Call for Dual Vaccinations in Autumn
“If we look at the vaccination data, we don’t see any positive signs,” said Pistello, noting a decline in immunity among those over 60 due to delayed vaccinations or fewer infections in recent months. He urged national health authorities to prepare for the fall vaccination campaign and recommended dual vaccination for the public, describing it as “safe and effective.”
When asked about making vaccinations mandatory, Pistello stated, “I find it difficult to consider this choice for Italy right now. Recovering from a measles outbreak isn’t easy. We need to keep a tight rein on vaccination coverage.”
While the overall COVID-19 situation remains manageable in Italy, the emergence of the Stratus variant and declining vaccination rates underscore the importance of continued public health vigilance heading into autumn.
Photo Credit: Mazur Travel / Shutterstock.com
