As we recover from the pandemic COVID-19 remains an ever-present risk. Recently, however, an emerging variant known as XEC has caused alarm in several countries; Germany, Denmark, the UK, and the Netherlands already have been identified with cases. Let us delve deeper into its characteristics, symptoms, and risks.
What Is the XEC Variant of COVID-19? It is believed that the XEC variant could be a subvariant of both KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 strains of COVID-19 and may pose severe threats in wintertime when respiratory illnesses spread more readily. As in other COVID variants before it, this strain could impose additional health hazards during periods when temperatures tend to remain cold.
Early studies reveal similarities between the XEC variant and those previously associated with increasing transmission rates – such as deFLuQE and KP.3.1.1 variants. Although only recently discovered, experts warn it may become even more widespread over time.
When Was the XEC Variant First Discovered?
Since June 2024 in Germany, where its first recorded case occurred, several European countries including Denmark, the UK and the Netherlands have seen infections of this XEC variant flu. While not yet globally widespread, its rapid transmission rates make this strain of influenza an increasing source of concern as flu season approaches.
How Dangerous Is the XEC Variant?
Health experts warn people not to underestimate the XEC strain. Concerns have been expressed over its rapid spread during colder months; while not much is yet known of its full impact or spread. Early assessments show it could even outshone previous variants as far as contagiousness goes.
One of the most alarming aspects of XEC is its potential to spread even among vaccinated populations, suggesting an unprecedented outbreak. Elderly individuals, immunocompromised people and those living with preexisting health conditions appear particularly at risk of severe illness from this strain of COVID-19 variants.
What Are the Symptoms of an XEC Variant?
At present, symptoms associated with the XEC variant appear similar to other COVID-19 strains; it remains too soon to determine whether this variation presents any unique signs or symptoms. Common COVID-19 signs and symptoms, including those seen with XEC:
- Cough: One of the most frequently reported symptoms is a persistent cough.
- Sore Throat: Individuals infected with XEC often report experiencing a scratchy or sore throat as one of its effects.
- Nasal Congestion and Runny Nose: Symptoms of early infection commonly include nasal congestion and runny nose.
- Sneezing: People infected with COVID-19 variants have reported frequent episodes of sneezing.
- Fatigue: Feeling overtired or lethargic could be the first indication of infection.
- Headache: Headaches can range in severity depending on an individual’s environment and health history.
- Muscle Pain: Muscle aches and general body aches are frequent complaints among athletes and gym-goers alike.
- Loss of Smell and Taste: COVID-19 variants often lead to sudden loss of smell and taste for many patients, making diagnosis challenging for doctors.
- Nasal Congestion: Trouble breathing through your nose may develop if your nose runs consistently, especially if the runniness continues to persist.
- Fever or Chills: Fever and chills can be among the first symptoms of XEC, similar to its predecessor variants.
- Difficulties Breathing: Some individuals may experience shortness of breath or difficulty in their respiratory systems due to health conditions that come into play, which could impede normal respiration.
- Nausea or Vomiting: Gastrointestinal symptoms have included nausea and vomiting.
- Diarrhea: Diarrhea has also been reported as one of the symptoms associated with COVID-19 infection.
- Loss of Appetite: Some patients report experiencing difficulty eating due to illness and an overall decrease in appetite.
How Does XEC Relate to Previous COVID-19 Variants?
While XEC shares many symptoms with earlier variants, what distinguishes it is its tendency to spread quickly during colder weather conditions – something particularly concerning as respiratory viruses thrive during winter months. Although its transmission rate has yet to be fully studied, initial reports indicate it could be as contagious or more so than Delta and Omicron variants.
Another key distinction lies in how the XEC variant may have evolved to render itself resistant to existing vaccines, though that doesn’t equate to them not providing as much protection against earlier strains of influenza; booster doses are being investigated to boost immunity against it.
What Precautions Should be Taken to Prevent Infection??
As the XEC variant poses serious threats, steps must be taken to safeguard both yourself and those around you. Here are a few suggested precautions:
- Get Vaccinated: While vaccines may not offer complete protection from XEC, they still offer some measure of defence and may help ward off serious illness.
- Take Booster Shots: As soon as booster doses for the XEC variant become available, be sure to get at least one for optimal health and immunity.
- Practice Social Distancing: Retaining distance in dense environments may reduce the chance of infection transmission.
- Wear Masks: In enclosed spaces, wearing masks may help stop the spread of respiratory viruses such as the XEC variant.
- Hand Hygiene: Handwashing and hand sanitiser use can reduce the risk of infections by creating an environment conducive to good hand hygiene practices.
- Avoid Crowded Spaces: Limiting exposure to overcrowded environments may help decrease your risk of contracting the flu virus.
- Public Health Guidelines: As more details emerge regarding the XEC variant, stay aware of relevant recommendations issued by health authorities.
What Should Be Done if You Show Signs of XEC?
If you suspect having contracted the XEC variant, the first step should be isolating yourself from others so as not to spread the infection further. Next, test for COVID-19 as soon as possible to confirm infection; and, should testing come back positive, follow local health department protocols regarding quarantine and treatment immediately.
Most symptoms will likely be mild and manageable at home; however, if severe symptoms such as difficulty breathing, chest pain, confusion or blue-tinged lips arise you should seek medical assistance immediately.
As winter nears, COVID-19 XEC represents a new threat that threatens to rapidly spread among larger populations. Although its symptoms resemble previous variants, its contagiousness and possible resistance to vaccines make XEC an especially dangerous variant to watch closely; more information emerges daily regarding it so it’s wise to remain wary, follow health guidelines, and take preventive steps as quickly as possible to mitigate its spread.
