XEC COVID Variant in 27 Countries: Key Facts and Updates
The XEC variant is a hybrid of the earlier omicron subvariants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, which is currently dominant in Europe.
New XEC COVID Variant Spreads to 27 Countries: What We Know So Far
The new XEC COVID-19 variant, described as “more contagious,” is rapidly spreading across Europe and is expected to become the dominant strain. First identified in Germany in June, XEC has now appeared in the UK, US, Denmark, and several other nations. According to experts, the variant, a sublineage of the Omicron variant, carries new mutations that may increase transmission this autumn. However, vaccines are still expected to prevent severe cases.
XEC is a hybrid of Omicron subvariants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, which currently dominate in Europe. So far, 500 samples from 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, China, and Portugal, have tested positive for XEC. Significant growth has been observed in Denmark, Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands.
Professor Francois Balloux, Director of the Genetics Institute at University College London, explained that while XEC has a “slight transmission advantage” over other recent variants, vaccines remain effective. He added that XEC could become the leading subvariant this winter.
Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, in California, Eric Topol said XEC is “just getting started”. “And that’s going to take many weeks, a couple months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave,” he said.
“XEC is definitely taking charge. That does appear to be the next variant. But it’s months off from getting into high levels,” said Mr Topol.
Symptoms of XEC Covid
Symptoms of XEC COVID Variant: Summary, Symptoms, and Precautions
Summary:
The XEC COVID variant, an advanced and more transmissible sublineage of Omicron, is spreading rapidly across 27 countries, including the UK, US, and several European nations. Identified as a hybrid of earlier Omicron subvariants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, XEC exhibits enhanced transmissibility but remains susceptible to current vaccines, which continue to provide significant protection against severe illness.
Symptoms:
The symptoms of the XEC COVID variant are similar to those of other COVID-19 variants but may present with increased intensity. Key symptoms include:
-Fever or Chills: Elevated body temperature or recurring chills.
-Cough: Persistent or dry cough.
– Shortness of Breath: Difficulty breathing or feeling winded.
– Fatigue: Persistent tiredness or exhaustion.
– Muscle or Body Aches: Generalized pain in muscles or body.
– Headache: Persistent or severe headaches.
– Sore Throat: Pain or irritation in the throat.
– Loss of Taste or Smell: Diminished or altered sense of taste or smell.
– Congestion or Runny Nose: Nasal congestion or excess mucus.
-Nausea or Vomiting: Feeling sick or actual vomiting.
– Diarrhea: Frequent, loose, or watery stools.
Precautions to Prevent the Spread of the XEC COVID Variant:
To reduce the risk of contracting or spreading the XEC COVID variant, follow these essential precautions:
– Get Vaccinated: Ensure you are fully vaccinated and receive booster shots as recommended to strengthen your immune response and lessen the severity of the illness.
– Wear Masks: Use face masks in crowded or poorly ventilated spaces, particularly if you exhibit symptoms or are in high-risk environments. Masks help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets.
-Practice Good Hygiene: Frequently wash your hands with soap and water or use hand sanitizer to eliminate germs and prevent the virus from spreading.
– Maintain Social Distance: Keep a safe distance from others, especially in high-risk settings or if you are symptomatic. This reduces the chance of transmission through close contact.
– Monitor Health: Be alert to symptoms of COVID-19 and get tested if you experience any signs of illness. Early detection can help prevent further spread.
– Follow Local Guidelines: Adhere to public health recommendations and restrictions in your area to support efforts to control the virus and protect community health.
By taking these precautions, you can help safeguard yourself and others from the XEC COVID variant.
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