New Covid variant on the rise

Many of us are sniffling our way through autumn with sore throats, coughs, and fatigue on the rise.

The country is battling a mix of flu and coronavirus infections that are costing the economy billions in sick days.

Health officials say one Covid variant is currently dominant: XFG, or better known as the “Frankenstein” or “Stratus” variant. 

According to the Federal Health Office, it now makes up over 80 percent of the viral load detected in sewage.

The variant is a recombination of several Omicron strains, may cause particularly severe sore throats, though the World Health Organization says there’s no sign it leads to more serious illness.

Authorities are warning Covid activity continues to climb  - and the wave hasn’t yet reached its peak.

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