Texas Sees Surge in COVID-19 Activity as New Variant Spreads

COVID-19 activity is climbing once again in Texas, with a new variant contributing to what the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) describes as “very high” levels statewide.

According to reporting from the Austin American-Statesman, federal researchers have been tracking the spread of SARS-CoV-2—the virus that causes COVID-19—through wastewater monitoring. Data from Aug. 17 through Aug. 23 showed significant spikes in viral activity across Texas, particularly in major metro areas including Austin, Houston, and Dallas–Fort Worth.

The CDC has identified the dominant strain behind this surge as XFG, also referred to as the “Stratus Variant.” This latest form of omicron now accounts for roughly 71% of cases circulating in the United States, according to agency data.

In its public health guidance, the CDC continues to emphasize vaccination as the best defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and death from COVID-19.

For the 2024–2025 season, the agency recommends the updated vaccine for most adults ages 18 and older, and especially for those 65 and older, those at higher risk of complications, or those who have never been vaccinated.