Yale News: COVID Stratus Variant, Climate Week NYC, Class Size Expansion, and Sustainability Innovations

Hello, and welcome to the latest episode of our campus news podcast. Today is Monday, September 15, 2025, and we've got a lineup of important updates and events happening at Yale University. As the fall semester kicks off, Yale Health has reported a rise in COVID-19 cases on campus. The new XFG variant, known as "Stratus," presents symptoms similar to previous Omicron strains, including fever, chills, muscle aches, and shortness of breath. In response, Yale Health will offer flu and COVID-19 vaccination clinics across campus starting in late September. Students experiencing symptoms are advised to isolate in their rooms and wear masks, especially around suitemates. For more information, visit the Yale Daily News website. Yale is actively participating in Climate Week NYC, the largest annual climate event of its kind. Scholars, students, and thought leaders from across the university will engage with global partners in various events, including a two-day summit at the Yale Club of New York City on September 24 and 25. The program will feature over 20 sessions focused on scalable climate solutions, such as the role of artificial intelligence in combating climate change and strategies for decarbonizing existing buildings. For a detailed agenda, visit the Yale at Climate Week NYC website. Yale College has announced an increase in its class size by 100 students per year, starting with the Class of 2029. This expansion will result in a total undergraduate population of 6,600 students. The university is committed to maintaining its need-blind admissions policy and meeting 100% of demonstrated financial need for all students. Additional resources will be provided to support student activities and campus life. More details can be found on the Yale News website. Yale is making strides in sustainability. Yale Printing & Publishing Services has been nationally recognized for using fabric made from recycled plastic bottles for printing research posters. Additionally, a new video released on September 3 offers a behind-the-scenes look at Yale's recycling processes and the professionals working towards the university's sustainability goals. To watch the video and learn more about these initiatives, visit the Yale Sustainability website. - : On September 10 at 4:00 PM, Pavel Brunssen will present "The Making of 'Jew Clubs': Performing Jewishness and Antisemitism in European Football and Fan Cultures." This lecture will be held on Zoom and is open to all. For more information, visit the YPSA website. - : Co-hosted by the Yale Center on Climate Change and Health and The New York Academy of Medicine, this event on September 25 will explore the latest research on achieving a more sustainable healthcare system. For details and registration, visit the Yale at Climate Week NYC website. That's all for today's episode. Stay safe, stay informed, and we'll catch you next time with more updates from around campus.