A new Covid variant known as XEC is beginning to spread and might soon become the predominant strain, according to scientists. Initially identified in Germany in June, cases of the XEC variant have since been reported in the UK, US, Denmark, and other countries, as noted by users on X, previously Twitter. This variant contains new mutations that may facilitate its spread this autumn, although experts maintain that vaccines should still be effective in preventing severe illness. For individuals at higher risk of serious illness from Covid, the NHS is providing a free booster shot.
The vaccines have been updated to align more closely with recent variants, albeit not specifically for XEC, which is derived from earlier Omicron subvariants. Professor Francois Balloux, Director of the Genetics Institute at University College London, indicated in a statement to BBC News that while XEC shows a slight advantage in transmission over other recent variants, vaccines should still provide substantial protection. He suggested that XEC could potentially become the leading subvariant during the winter months.
Eric Topol, Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, noted that XEC is “just getting started” and will take several weeks or a couple of months before it significantly intensifies and triggers a wave of infections. He remarked, “XEC is definitely taking charge. It appears to be the next variant, but it’s still months away from reaching high levels.”
What are the symptoms associated with the XEC variant?