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Germany is seeing a rise in COVID-19 infections linked to a new recombinant strain known scientifically as XFG and informally as the “Frankenstein variant.” The World Health Organization (WHO) and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) have classified XFG as a variant under monitoring (VUM), meaning it is being observed for potential changes in transmissibility or severity, but it is not currently considered a variant of concern.
The XFG variant, also referred to as the “Stratus” variant, emerged as a recombination (a mix of two virus lineages) of two previous sub-lineages, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. This means that genetic material from both strains merged during co-infection in a single host. Its nickname, “Frankenstein,” was coined due to this hybrid nature — reminiscent of the fictional creature assembled from different parts.
Data from the Robert Koch Institute (RKI) and ECDC indicate that XFG has become the dominant strain in Germany since mid-2025, accounting for a growing share of sequenced cases. The variant has also been reported in other European countries, including France, Spain and the Netherlands.
While overall COVID-19 case numbers remain elevated across Europe, they are currently declining in most regions, according to ECDC data.
The clinical picture of infection with XFG appears broadly similar to that of previous Omicron-derived variants. Common symptoms include sore throat, cough, fatigue and fever.
Media reports have highlighted cases of patients experiencing an unusually sharp sore throat described as a “razor blade sensation,” although health authorities emphasize that such symptoms are not unique to XFG and can occur with other respiratory viruses, including influenza.
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