Facts About the New XEC COVID-19 Variant

The XEC variant has recently emerged as a topic of concern in the ongoing battle against COVID-19. Here's what you need to know about it

1. Discovery and Spread

The first strain was identified in Australia and ever since, it has been reported in over 29 countries, including France, the United States, the UK, Canada, and Denmark. It currently accounts for a growing percentage of infections in North America and Europe.

2. Nature of the Variant

XEC is a recombinant strain, meaning it resulted from the combination of two Omicron subvariants, KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. Recombinant variants like XEC form when an individual is simultaneously infected with multiple strains, allowing their genetic material to merge. XEC carries mutations that may enhance its transmissibility compared to earlier variants

3. Severity of Symptoms

So far, XEC does not appear to cause more severe disease than other Omicron subvariants. Common symptoms include fever, sore throat, fatigue, and body aches, which range from mild to moderate. However, vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or immunocompromised, remain at higher risk of severe illness

4. Vaccine Protection

The 2024-2025 updated COVID-19 vaccines are expected to provide good protection against XEC. These vaccines target related variants and are designed to reduce the severity of illness and hospitalisations

5. Precautions

Health experts recommend continuing preventative measures such as mask-wearing in crowded spaces, frequent handwashing, and vaccination. With the winter season approaching, when respiratory illnesses tend to surge, maintaining these precautions is crucial

XEC’s rise highlights the importance of ongoing vigilance and vaccination efforts to manage new variants. Also remember to protect yourself this festive season, especially around people who have traveled from afar to celebrate the period with you. The festives are better spent in health.

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