“American COVID” is a media nickname for the SARS-CoV-2 lineage XFG, also called Stratus. It is not an official World Health Organization (WHO) variant name, and the nickname does not show that the lineage originated in the United States.
What does “American COVID” refer to?
Recent coverage uses “American COVID” to refer to XFG, a SARS-CoV-2 lineage also described in media as Stratus. The Independent used the nickname in an article published on 2 October 2026. The Independent’s report is evidence of media usage, not an official naming decision.
As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.
WHO’s designation for the lineage is XFG. “American COVID” and “Stratus” are not WHO variant identifiers.
Do these 3 things before closing this tab:
1Repair Windows errors before they cause bigger problems2Scan for outdated or missing drivers - takes under a minute3Clear out junk files and repair common Windows errorsWhat is XFG?
WHO describes XFG as a recombinant of the SARS-CoV-2 lineages LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. A recombinant lineage forms when genetic material from related viruses is combined; XFG is tracked by its lineage identifier rather than by the nickname used in a news headline. WHO’s XFG risk evaluation gives the lineage description and monitoring details.
#1 Best Overall
- FDA Authorized 15-Minute Self-Test: The test is a 15-minute self-test to detect whether or not an individual has COVID-19. The test can be completed in the comfort of your own home without the need to ship your sample to a lab.
- Easy to Use with Zero Discomfort: Test can be done by inserting 1/2 to 3/4 inch of a simple non-invasive nasal swab. Step-by-step instructional videos are available in our app (Installation of app is optional).
- For Ages 2 and Above : The self-administered test is recommended for individuals aged 15 years and older. Adult-collection is required for testing children 2-14 years old.
- Manage Group Testing Via Mobile App: The iHealth Test app allows the administrator of a small group to monitor and track the group members’ test results as needed at school, work or an event.
- Independently-sealed packaging ensures safe and hygienic testing. The swabs and test cards of iHealth COVID-19 Antigen Rapid Test are sealed and independently packaged to ensure the safety and hygiene of the product.
When did WHO begin monitoring XFG?
WHO’s chronology records the earliest XFG sample as 27 January 2025 and its designation as a Variant Under Monitoring (VUM) on 25 June 2025. WHO’s tracking table listed XFG as a VUM in its status snapshot dated 27 July 2026. These are dated classification details, not a forecast of how the lineage will behave or a guarantee that its status will remain unchanged.
For the latest classification, check WHO’s live SARS-CoV-2 variant tracking page.
Rank #2
- Fast Results in 10 Minutes – Get reliable Covid-19 test results in as little as 10 minutes, perfect for quick checks before gatherings or travel.
- Easy to Use, No Lab Needed – Simple step-by-step instructions allow you to self-administer the test at home with no need for professional assistance.
- Detects All Major Variants – Effectively identifies all known Covid-19 variants, giving you confidence in the test’s ability to track evolving strains.
- Compact and Travel-Friendly – Conveniently sized for travel, this kit allows you to test anywhere, giving you the flexibility to stay safe on the go.
- Only 5 turns per nostril —why bother with 10? Get quick and reliable results with less effort, making testing easier for the whole family, Our Covid-19 test kit for home works for individuals ages 2+.
Does the nickname mean XFG started in America?
No. The sources documenting the nickname do not establish where XFG originated. “American” is part of a media label, not evidence of the lineage’s geographic origin. The reviewed sources also do not establish who coined the phrase or whether every outlet uses it in exactly the same way.
What did WHO say about XFG’s health risk?
In its evaluation dated 25 June 2025, WHO assessed XFG’s additional global public-health risk as low. At that time, WHO said available data did not indicate greater severity than other variants in circulation. The statement is time-specific; it does not mean XFG cannot cause severe illness, and later evidence could change the assessment.
Rank #3
- COVID TEST KITS: 4 BinaxNOW COVID-19 Rapid Test Kits includes 4 foam-tipped swabs, 4 test cards, and 4 dropper bottles with simple instructions
- HSA/FSA ELIGIBLE: Abbott’s BinaxNOW at-home COVID test kits are HSA/FSA eligible
- TRUSTED TECHNOLOGY: FDA authorized BinaxNOW COVID tests utilize the same technology doctors use to test for COVID-19; BinaxNOW rapid COVID tests detect multiple COVID-19 variants*
- FAST COVID-19 TEST RESULTS: Each COVID rapid test provides fast, reliable results in just 15 minutes—no appointment required
- FOR AGES 2 and ABOVE: COVID-19 tests are suitable for kids when administered by an adult; ages 15 and older are able to self-administer COVID home tests with easy-to-follow instructions
WHO’s evaluation stated: “Current data do not indicate that this variant leads to more severe illness or deaths than other variants in circulation.” That conclusion reflects the evidence available to WHO for its 25 June 2025 evaluation, not a claim about every individual infection or all future evidence.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- FDA Authorized 15-Minute Flu A&B, COVID Test Kit: Over-the-counter flu and COVID test for home use with rapid results in just 15 minutes.
- Made for Ages 2 and Above; Parents Can Stop Guessing: Quickly identify whether you or your kids are dealing with coronavirus or influenza A & B. Adult-collection is required for those aged 2-13 years, and self-collection by individuals aged 14 years and older.
- Same Ease-of-Use; Get 3 Results in 1 Test: Utilizing the familiar 4 user-friendly steps of at-home COVID tests, you can now get all 3 results for COVID-19 and Flu A & B at once with 5 drops of sample.
- Fast and Convenient COVID and Flu Tests for Home: Use this COVID and influenza rapid test kit in the comfort of your home. Bypass the need for a doctor's visit and protect your loved ones from potential exposure to contagious illnesses at school, work, or public gatherings.
- Compact Design for On-the-Go Testing: Stay safe wherever you go with our COVID-19, Flu A & B 3-in-1 self-test. Its compact design ensures easy storage and convenient portability for your travel bag.
Rank #4
- #1 COVID-19 SELF TEST IN THE USA: Made with the same reliable technology used by doctors. Detects multiple COVID-19 variants, including Delta and Omicron*
- FAST RESULTS: At home test with results for you or your family in 15 minutes; no need for a prescription or sending to a lab
- TRUSTED TECHNOLOGY: Identical to the test used by professionals; intended for personal use with self-reported results and has Emergency Use Authorization from the FDA
- CONVENIENTLY TEST AT HOME: 2 nasal swab tests are included to detect active infection, with or without symptoms
- FSA/HSA ELIGIBLE: Test may be reimbursed, depending on coverage; contact your health insurance company to learn more
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
