A new Covid-19 strain nicknamed the ‘Frankenstein variant’ or the ‘Halloween Monster in the Air’ is spreading quickly across Europe, causing a noticeable rise in infections in schools, nurseries, and care facilities.
The variant, scientifically known as XFG and also referred to as ‘Stratus’, has already triggered a spike in hospital visits, with France recording a 37 per cent increase in respiratory-related cases, as per a report by Healthandme.
The spread across Europe
In Germany, the ‘Frankenstein’ strain has become the dominant Covid variant, accounting for 84 per cent of detected SARS-CoV-2 cases at the start of October. Now it is also dominant in places like Austria and Switzerland, making up about 80 per cent of the viral load in wastewater samples.
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The variant has affected people of all age groups. The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) has linked the increase in acute respiratory illnesses since September to the spread of this strain.
Why is it called the ‘Frankenstein’ variant?
The name comes from its genetic fusion of components from different virus lineages. Scientists are saying this is a mix that makes it a “genetic monster”, and hence the nickname.
The XFG strain is a recombinant form created from Omicron lineages LF.7 and LP.8.1.2, resulting in a version that is more resistant and capable of spreading faster than previous ones.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) placed it under the category of “variant under monitoring” on June 25, 2025. While WHO considers the global risk from this variant to be low, the mutation has made it more transmissible, leading to the rising number of cases in several countries.
What are the symptoms observed so far?
Doctors have noted that most symptoms remain similar to those of earlier COVID-19 infections, though some resemble those of a regular cold.
The reported symptoms include:
Sore throat
Runny nose and congestion
Dry cough
Fatigue and muscle pain
Mild fever
Loss of appetite
Shortness of breath
Chest pain
High fever in people with weakened immunity
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How can you stay protected?
There is no specific treatment for the Frankenstein variant yet. Health experts recommend the same precautionary measures used for other COVID-19 strains.
Precautionary steps:
Current vaccines still help prevent severe illness and hospitalisation, even if protection levels vary with new variants.
Stay hydrated, rest adequately, and use fever or cough medicines if needed.
Continue wearing masks in crowded places, wash hands frequently, and avoid poorly ventilated areas.
Experts advise consulting a doctor if the symptoms develop or worsen.
What is the takeaway?
The so-called ‘Frankenstein’ or ‘Halloween Monster’ variant has quickly become dominant in parts of Europe. While there is no cause for panic, public health authorities emphasise the importance of staying cautious, completing vaccinations, and maintaining basic preventive habits.
