Experiencing a summer cold? Learn essential facts about summer colds and the COVID-19 variant named Stratus
COVID-19, Flu, and West Nile Virus: A Summer Update in Europe
As the summer months progress, Europe is experiencing a shift in the patterns of various viruses.
COVID-19
Cases of COVID-19 are trending upward in several European countries this summer, with the XFG ("stratus") variant being the most common in the European Union, Iceland, Liechtenstein, and Norway. The XFG variant can cause symptoms like a severe sore throat, but vaccines remain effective against it. This rise occurs despite the summer heat, and although hospitalizations and deaths are lower than last year, the virus shows a pattern of late summer surges before settling into a seasonal (winter) pattern eventually [1][5].
Influenza and RSV
In contrast, the number of people seeking medical care for flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections remains low this summer in Europe. This is consistent with typical seasonal patterns but with a notable late summer rise in COVID-19 cases [1]. Atypical influenza patterns with co-circulation of RSV and COVID-19 have caused strain in recent years, but currently, flu and RSV are low in the summer of 2025 across Europe [4].
West Nile Virus (WNV)
Though not a respiratory virus, WNV cases are notable this summer, with Europe experiencing a near-peak seasonal rise. Over 200 human cases have been reported in 2025 so far, mainly in Italy, Greece, and France, with 10 fatalities. This activity is slightly above the decade average but below the intense years of 2018 and 2024 [2][3].
Precautions and Boosters
For most people, it may be worth waiting until the fall to get a COVID-19 booster in anticipation of winter cases ticking up. Dr. Costi Sifri of the University of Virginia Health System suggests getting vaccinated to be fully protected at the time that it's most important for the individual [6]. Older adults and those with weak immune systems may need more boosters than others, according to Dr. Sifri.
Behavior changes, such as opening windows and gathering outside, can help limit the spread of germs during the summer. Spending time outside, washing hands, wearing masks, and staying home when sick are all effective measures for reducing risk [7].
In summary, COVID-19 is circulating more actively this summer in Europe compared to flu and RSV, which are currently at low levels, consistent with typical seasonal patterns but with a notable late summer rise in COVID-19 cases [1][5]. Additionally, mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus are also significant public health concerns this season [2][3].
In the realm of health and wellness, focusing on mental health, nutrition, and fitness becomes increasingly important as Europe battles the summer surge of the COVID-19 virus, with the XFG variant being the most prevalent in the region. To help combat the spread of the virus, it's recommended to engage in fitness and exercise regularly, maintain a balanced diet, and consider the use of CBD for managing stress and anxiety. With West Nile Virus exhibiting a near-peak seasonal rise, Mosquito-borne diseases also emerge as significant public health concerns during this summer.
