COVID-19 Cases Rise in France as New “Frankenstein” Variant Spreads
Paris, France – September 26, 2024 – COVID-19 cases are once again on the rise in France, with emergency room visits for suspected infections increasing by 37% among adults during the week of September 15 to 21, according to Public Health France. This uptick coincides with the growing global prevalence of a new COVID-19 variant nicknamed “Frankenstein,” officially designated XFG.
The incidence rate of the virus climbed from 38 cases per 100,000 inhabitants (September 8-14) to 49 cases per 100,000 (September 15-21), data from the Sentinel network shows.The World Health Association (WHO) reports that XFG is experiencing “rapid growth” compared to other circulating variants worldwide,particularly in Southeast Asia where increases in cases adn hospitalizations have been observed alongside its detection.
XFG is a derivative of the Omicron variant, created through a hybridization of several strains. Despite its concerning spread, the WHO currently reassures that “current data does not indicate that this variant leads to a more serious form or deaths than other variants in circulation.”
The WHO assesses the additional public health risk posed by XFG as low globally and believes currently approved COVID-19 vaccines should remain effective against both symptomatic and severe illness caused by the variant.
France is preparing to launch a new COVID-19 vaccination campaign on October 14, prioritizing individuals at risk, including those over 65, immunocompromised individuals, pregnant women, and their close contacts.
