Dr. Francisco Durán García, head of Epidemiology at Cuba's Ministry of Public Health, addressed the nation's epidemiological landscape on Wednesday, downplaying concerns over a new COVID-19 variant. He also emphasized the importance of continued preventive measures for the public.
During his regular weekly briefing, Dr. Durán tackled recent concerns about the potential presence of the XFG subvariant, also known as Stratus, in Cuba. This subvariant, a descendant of Omicron, has been circulating globally since January 2025.
Stable Situation Despite New Variant Concerns
Dr. Durán clarified that no COVID-19 fatalities have been recorded in Cuba since 2022, and the number of cases remains minimal or nonexistent. However, he did not provide specific figures on current infections or the presence of the XFG variant. He assured that the country's epidemiological situation remains stable.
"COVID-19 in Cuba has been kept under control, largely due to the effective measures taken during the pandemic," Dr. Durán stated. His previous alert about the variant was intended purely as a precautionary measure: "My aim in issuing the alert was to encourage protection against this and any other variant."
XFG (Stratus): Internationally Monitored Subvariant
Classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a variant under monitoring, XFG is present in at least 36 countries and accounts for up to 32% of cases in some areas. According to Dr. Durán, this subvariant has not led to severe clinical presentations and exhibits symptoms akin to other coronavirus strains, such as hoarseness, sore throat, mild fever, fatigue, general discomfort, and digestive issues, without major complications.
Cuban Vaccines Providing Continued Protection
The Cuban epidemiologist highlighted the ongoing effectiveness of vaccines, including those developed domestically. "Vaccines offer protection, including our own, which have been very successful; they protect against this variant," he affirmed, stressing the importance of vulnerable groups completing their vaccination schedules and receiving booster doses.
"Having an up-to-date vaccination schedule is essential," Dr. Durán emphasized, noting that prevention begins with individual responsibility. He also urged that vaccination efforts extend to other respiratory diseases like influenza, particularly during peak viral circulation months.
Personal Protection Measures: Essential for Preventing Infection
Though he reiterated that "there is no increase in cases whatsoever," Dr. Durán urged the public to maintain health discipline and adopt the following preventive measures:
- Wearing masks in enclosed spaces, queues, and public transport.
- Ensuring proper ventilation indoors.
- Frequent handwashing.
- Avoiding going out if experiencing respiratory symptoms.
- Maintaining physical distance in crowded places.
Previous Warning and Lack of Official Confirmation
In his previous briefing, Dr. Durán had raised the possibility of the XFG variant circulating in Cuba, although it had not been officially detected. "It is very possible that it is present," he mentioned, referring to the virus's high transmission capability in its asymptomatic phase and extensive international mobility.
Nonetheless, in his latest address, Dr. Durán did not confirm the variant's presence with epidemiological evidence nor provide data indicating active infections linked to this strain. This suggests that Cuban authorities are opting for a cautious surveillance approach, focusing on prevention without causing alarm.
FAQs on COVID-19 and the XFG Variant in Cuba
What is the XFG variant?
The XFG variant, also known as Stratus, is a subvariant of Omicron and has been circulating internationally since January 2025. It is under monitoring by the WHO.
Are there any severe cases reported in Cuba due to the XFG variant?
As of now, no severe cases or fatalities related to the XFG variant have been reported in Cuba, and the epidemiological situation remains stable.
How effective are Cuban vaccines against the new variant?
Cuban vaccines continue to provide effective protection against the XFG variant, as confirmed by Dr. Francisco Durán García.