XFG ‘American Covid’ Strain Drives UK Hospital Admissions Up 420% in September

The XFG variant, known as ‘American Covid’ after becoming dominant in North America, is driving a sharp spike in UK Covid cases and hospital admissions this autumn. The UK Health Security Agency reported that cases jumped 230 per cent from August to September, reaching 4,589, while hospital admissions surged 420 per cent to 4,939. Despite the sharp month-on-month rise, health officials stress overall numbers remain far below the January 2021 peak of over 20,000 hospitalisations.

How fast are cases rising?

In September alone, Covid cases reached 4,589, up 230 per cent from 1,374 in August, according to the UK Health Security Agency. Hospital admissions jumped even faster, rising 420 per cent to 4,939 from 950 in August. In a single week to 23 September, cases climbed 28.6 per cent to 1,364. London saw the sharpest regional surge, with hospital admissions rising 79 per cent.

What is the XFG variant and where did it come from?

XFG, also called Stratus or ‘American Covid’, is a recombination of two earlier variants, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, according to the World Health Organisation. It was first identified in January 2025 and became the dominant strain in North America, earning its American nickname. More than half of all positive Covid tests in UK hospitals in September were the XFG variant. Dr Alex Allen, consultant epidemiologist at the UKHSA, said the strain is “closely related” to variants circulating for over a year, meaning it is not entirely new.

What symptoms should people watch for?

XFG produces similar symptoms to earlier Covid strains and common colds, including cough, runny nose, and sore throat. Experts note the variant may present a scratchy throat more frequently than original Covid strains. However, experts have assured the strain does not appear to cause more severe disease than previous variants. Dr Matthew Siggins, lecturer in immunity and infection biology at the University of Surrey, said the rise is not a “reason for alarm” as many people retain immunity from prior infection and vaccination.

Who should get vaccinated and why?

The UKHSA is urging eligible groups to receive the autumn Covid-19 vaccine, which is specifically designed to protect against the XFG strain and its variants. Priority groups include people aged 75 and over, residents in care homes for older adults, and immunosuppressed individuals. The vaccine campaign aims to prevent hospitalisations and deaths ahead of winter, when respiratory viruses typically spread faster. The UKHSA continues to monitor all Covid variants circulating in the UK and abroad.

Final Thoughts

While XFG cases and hospitalisations have surged sharply in September, health officials stress the overall risk remains manageable. The autumn vaccine targets this specific strain, and prior immunity from vaccination and infection provides protection for most people.

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