As we continue to navigate the global health challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the emergence of new variants remains a significant concern. One such variant making headlines is the XEC variant. Though it’s been years since the pandemic began, COVID-19 continues to evolve, with variants like XEC raising questions and concerns.

In this blog, we’ll dive into what’s known about this new strain, where it has been detected, its symptoms, and what experts recommend to stay safe.

What Is the XEC Variant?

The XEC variant is a new sub-lineage of the highly infectious Omicron variant of COVID-19. According to experts, it is a hybrid strain resulting from the combination of two existing variants—KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. As reported by Forbes, the XEC variant is essentially a “love child” of these two strains.

– KS.1.1: Known as a FLiRT variant, KS.1.1 was responsible for a surge in COVID-19 cases globally.
– KP.3.3: A FLuQE variant, KP.3.3 has a specific mutation where the amino acid glutamine is replaced by glutamic acid, making it more efficient at binding to human cells.

These characteristics give XEC the potential to spread rapidly, although it is not yet the dominant strain globally.

Where Has the XEC Variant Been Detected?

The XEC variant was first discovered in Berlin, Germany, in June. Since then, it has spread to several other regions, including the United Kingdom, Denmark, the United States, and many other countries. According to recent data, as of September 3, the XEC variant has been detected in 15 countries and 12 U.S. states.

It was reported that 10% of Slovenia’s COVID-19 cases in August were attributed to the XEC variant. Over 500 samples from 27 countries, including Poland, Norway, Portugal, Ukraine, and even China, have tested positive for XEC.

Is the XEC Variant Fast Spreading?

Although XEC is not the dominant strain of COVID-19, it has the potential to be. Experts note that this variant appears to be spreading more quickly than other strains, although the exact reason is yet to be determined.

Scripps Research Translational Institute Director Eric Topol highlighted that the XEC variant “appears to be the most likely one to get legs next.” While it may take weeks or even a couple of months for this variant to significantly take hold, it’s important to stay vigilant.

Experts are particularly concerned because the KP.3.1.1 variant, one of XEC’s predecessors, led to a surge in COVID cases across 80 countries last year.

What Are the Symptoms of the XEC Variant?

Those infected with the XEC variant exhibit symptoms that are very similar to the Omicron variant. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the UK’s National Health Service (NHS) have outlined a list of symptoms commonly associated with XEC:

– Fever or chills
– Cough
– Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
– Sore throat
– Congestion or runny nose
– Loss of taste or smell
– Fatigue
– Muscle or body aches
– Headache
– Nausea or vomiting
– Diarrhea

These symptoms align with those from earlier strains, but due to its hybrid nature, the XEC variant may spread more easily.

How Can You Stay Safe from the XEC Variant?

Vaccination remains the most effective way to protect yourself from COVID-19, including the XEC variant. The new vaccines developed in recent months are believed to be effective against KP.2, the predecessor of KP.3.1.1, and likely protect XEC as well.

Dr. Elizabeth Hudson, Regional Chief of Infectious Diseases for Kaiser Permanente Southern California, told the Los Angeles Times that the new vaccines would offer some level of protection against XEC due to the overlap with the Omicron family. While the XEC variant is a sub-sub-lineage of Omicron, it doesn’t represent an entirely new variant, meaning the vaccines still provide a good level of immunity.

In addition to vaccination, following basic COVID-19 safety protocols like mask-wearing in crowded spaces, frequent handwashing, and social distancing can further reduce the risk of infection.

The XEC variant is another reminder that COVID-19 continues to be a global health concern. While it hasn’t yet taken over as the dominant strain, its ability to spread quickly and mutate means we must stay cautious.

As always, the best defense against any new variant is vaccination, along with adherence to recommended health guidelines. Keep yourself updated with the latest news and guidance from health authorities to protect yourself and your loved ones from this evolving virus.

Stay safe, stay informed, and keep your immunity strong!

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