New Covid strain named ‘Frankenstein’ expected to spike in France this autumn

A new Covid-19 variant nicknamed “Frankenstein” is driving a steady rise in cases across France, with health experts reminding people to get their vaccination when the annual campaign starts in October.

The strain, officially designated XFG or Stratus, has spread globally since the summer. It is described as highly contagious, with the World Health Organization adding it to its list of variants under monitoring in June. 

The nickname ‘Frankenstein’ refers to its emergence from the recombination of several different Covid lineages.

Professor of public health at the University of Geneva, Antoine Flahault, told news website actu.fr that the strain was spreading in France “even during the heart of summer” and has since shown signs of continuing circulation into the colder months. 

French health indicators already reflect this

From late August Santé publique France has recorded three consecutive weeks of rising infections, with positivity rates and consultations for suspected Covid climbing steadily.

Emergency visits linked to Covid rose sharply in some areas at the end of August, notably by 20% among under-15s and 12% in the 15-74 age group. Local surges have also been observed, with Brittany and western France most affected.

In Charente-Maritime, 9.5% of all emergency department visits were linked to suspected Covid in early September, five times more than the previous week. Similar spikes were reported in Vendée and Loire-Atlantique.

What is the ‘Frankenstein’ Covid?

The Stratus - ‘Frankenstein’ - Covid supplanted the previously dominant Nimbus strain of Covid this summer. 

The symptoms associated with Stratus do not appear markedly different from earlier strains. 

Most cases involve upper respiratory tract infections, with cough, runny nose and sore throat the most frequent complaints. Loss of taste or smell has become uncommon. 

Previously developed vaccinations are effective against it.

However, the World Health Organization has noted mutations on the spike protein that help the virus evade antibodies, raising concerns for vulnerable groups.

Vaccination campaign in October

Overall infection levels remain moderate compared to previous waves of Covid-19.

But with cases increasing nationwide and the colder season ahead, attention is turning to the timing of France's vaccination campaign.

France’s campaign for the most vulnerable – including the over-80s, immunocompromised patients and those with chronic illnesses – is due to begin on October 14, at the same time as flu jabs.

Some specialists are urging that the schedule be brought forward. 

Dr Odile Launay, infectious disease specialist at Cochin Hospital in Paris, told news website RTL of the need to raise awareness of the campaign.

“Many people think that they have already received several doses of vaccines and that that should be enough,” she said. 

“In fact it is like the flu: viruses evolve and the immunity induced by this vaccination is relatively short-lived, so revaccination is entirely justified.”

The Covid-19 vaccination campaign focuses on people most at risk of developing severe illness. It is strongly recommended for the following groups:

• People aged 65 and over

• Individuals with chronic conditions (hypertension, heart disease, diabetes, cancer, etc.)

• Pregnant women

• People living with obesity

• Immunocompromised individuals and their close contacts

• Residents of any age in care facilities

• Healthcare and social care professionals in contact with vulnerable groups

• People with psychiatric disorders, dementia, or Down’s syndrome

The vaccine, which may be administered at the same time as a flu shot, can be provided by a wide range of doctors, nurses, pharmacists, midwives, and medical or pharmacy students.

A Covid-19 booster shot is advised at least six months after the last injection or infection, though this interval is reduced to three months for immunocompromised patients and for people aged 80 and above. 

Children between six months and four years who have never been vaccinated or infected follow a three-dose schedule, with the first two doses spaced 21 days apart and the third given eight weeks later.

Vaccinations against Covid-19 are fully covered by Assurance maladie for everyone - even those not targeted by the campaign.