Is it a cold or Covid? An expert M.D. breaks down the most common Covid symptoms to watch for right now—and how to stay healthy.
About the expert
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Highlights
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The latest Covid-19 variant, known as XFG “Stratus,” is circulating across the United States—and experts say it’s behaving much like the strains we’ve seen in recent years.
“The new variant, like ones before it, is slightly more contagious than prior strains,” says Linda Yancey, MD, a board-certified infectious disease physician at Memorial Hermann Katy Hospital in Texas.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), XFG is a recombinant—or hybrid—of two existing Omicron strains, LF.7 and LP.8.1.2. This means it carries a blend of genetic material from both variants, which may make it more efficient at attaching to cells and spreading infection.
So far, Dr. Yancey says most people are experiencing familiar Covid symptoms such as cough and congestion. But one complaint is standing out this season: a painfully sharp “razor blade throat,” describing the intense soreness or burning sensation some people feel when swallowing.
Ahead, Dr. Yancey explains whether this symptom is truly unique to the new strain, what Covid treatment looks like in 2025, and the best ways to protect yourself this season.
What are the latest Covid symptoms in 2025?
Dr. Yancey notes that sore throats and coughs remain among the most common Covid 2025 symptoms she’s seeing. “As time goes by, Covid is acting more and more like the more common coronaviruses that have caused the common cold for decades,” she explains.
Although many people have described a “razor blade throat” sensation with the new Stratus variant, Dr. Yancey says this symptom isn’t unique to XFG. Painful or burning sore throats have been well-documented Covid symptoms since the start of the pandemic.
Other common symptoms of the Stratus variant can include:
- Congestion
- Runny nose
- Headache
- Shortness of breath
- Fatigue or body aches
- Mild fever or chills
- New loss of sense of taste or smell
Because symptoms can overlap with colds, allergies, and the flu, testing is still the best way to confirm whether it’s Covid-19.
What does treatment look like today?
The approach to treating Covid hasn’t changed much over the past couple of years, says Dr. Yancey. “Most people will do just fine with symptomatic treatment, resting, and staying hydrated,” she explains. “The antivirals are generally only used for those patients who develop pneumonia.” One encouraging sign, she adds, is that pneumonia cases are becoming less common year over year.
Those at higher risk for serious illness—such as adults over 65 or people with weakened immune systems—should reach out to their healthcare provider early to discuss whether antiviral medication may be appropriate.
How to protect yourself this season
Your best defense this fall is to get both your Covid booster and flu shot, says Dr. Yancey. Wearing a mask in crowded indoor spaces can also help reduce exposure to a variety of circulating viruses during the cold and flu season.
If you’re unsure whether you or your child should receive the updated Covid vaccine, Dr. Yancey recommends turning to trusted, evidence-based resources like the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology and the American Academy of Pediatrics, which offer clear and up-to-date vaccine guidance online.
“Generally most children and adults should receive a Covid vaccine,” she says. “Pregnant patients especially should get it to protect themselves and their babies.”
The bottom line on Covid in 2025
“Covid continues to morph into a more endemic and seasonal disease, much like the other endemic coronaviruses,” Dr. Yancey says. In other words, it’s becoming something we expect to see each year—similar to the common cold or flu—rather than a pandemic-level emergency. She does offer a caution: “However, it is still a danger for the very old, the very young, and the immunocompromised.”
Dr. Yancey encourages staying current on vaccinations, saying, “By getting vaccinated, you’re protecting yourself and everyone around you. As more and more of the population has at least some immunity, we are seeing less severe disease predominating.”
You can also visit The Healthy Virus & Vaccine Guide for more information, including surprising reasons to get vaccinated.
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