A new Covid XEC variant is spreading - but what are the signs to know?
As we wave goodbye to summer and thoughts turn to the cosier months of the year, it's understandable that you might be thinking more about illness picking up too: winter is notorious for being cold and flu season. And, sadly, there's another Covid variant doing the rounds for us all to be mindful of, too.
But what is the new Covid XEC variant? What symptoms does it have and will being vaccinated protect you against it?
We asked Dr Bruno Silvester Lopes, a lecturer in microbiology at Teesside University, to break down all you need to know about the new XEC strain – including how much of a threat it poses right now.
"The current risk of falling ill from COVID-19 varies based on location," he notes. "However, as we enter autumn and winter, the risk increases because cooler temperatures help the virus particles to survive longer. Cooler temperatures cause the air to dry, which can dry out mucous membranes in our nose and throat making us prone to viral infection(s)."
The expert adds that "XEC [has been] found in 500 samples identified across 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, Luxembourg, Ukraine, Portugal, China and cases are on the rise in countries like Denmark, Germany, the UK, and the Netherlands". Meaning, it's worth us all getting clued up and being mindful over the coming months.
So, here's what we know about the Covid XEC variant so far.
What is the Covid XEC variant?
According to Dr Lopes, the "XEC is a hybrid strain that evolved from the earlier Omicron sub-variants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, which is a direct descendant of the FLiRT variant. Right now, KS.1.1 is the dominant variant in Europe."
Meaning, while this latest variant of Covid may have a new name, it's basically the cousin of strains we've known about for quite some time and isn't a totally new beast.
Symptoms of the Covid XEC variant
Much like its predecessors, the XEC variant has a range of symptoms – we all know Covid is an illness that can impact people in different ways – but there are some core signs to look out for, including a fever (especially in the earlier stages), a sore throat and changes in your sense of smell.
"The symptoms linked to XEC resemble those of earlier Covid variants," details Dr Lopes, "such as fever, sore throat, cough, loss of sense of smell, reduced appetite, and body aches."
To recap, symptoms of the Covid XEC variant include:
A fever
Sore throat
Cough
Loss of smell
Change in appetite
Body aches
Should we still be worried about Covid?
While the World Health Organisation has officially declared that the pandemic is over, Covid as a whole is still cause for concern for many of us – and there are thousands in the country who are still struggling with the fallout of the virus, including those with Long Covid.
"Whether COVID-19 should still be a cause for concern depends on several factors, such as current infection rates, the emergence of new variants, and individual risk levels," explains Dr Lopes. "While vaccines and treatments have significantly reduced the severity of illness for most people, COVID-19 can still pose a threat, especially to vulnerable populations like the elderly, immunocompromised individuals, or those with underlying health conditions."
He adds that newer variants could also "potentially bypass immunity, though vaccines and boosters are generally effective at preventing severe illness and hospitalisation".
The risk, Dr Lopes says, is higher "for individuals who are not vaccinated and especially those who have a low immune status due to underlying conditions or their age", reminding us all of the importance of considering the vaccine, getting a booster jab (if eligible) or chatting to your GP if you would like extra support or advice.
What to do if you think you have Covid XEC
Like with any strain of the virus, it's important that we're all considerate of one another and continue to do what we can to minimise the spread. Although legally it's allowed to continue going about your daily life after having tested positive for Covid, it's best to stay home when unwell (if you can) and avoid contact with others, especially those who are older or vulnerable.
"If you're feeling unwell, stay home, test for COVID-19, and avoid contact with others," Dr Lopes recommends. "Wear masks in crowded or high-risk settings, especially if you're vulnerable. While vaccines provide strong protection, cases may rise in colder months, and new variants may have greater transmissibility. Maintain good hygiene and ventilation, and stay up-to-date with vaccines to reduce your risk."
This article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice or diagnosis. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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