As we approach the cooler months and the inevitable surge in respiratory illnesses, a new COVID-19 variant, XEC, is garnering attention from scientists and health officials. While the current dominant strain in the US remains a member of the Omicron family, KP.3.1.1, experts suggest that XEC, currently spreading rapidly in Europe, could become the next major variant to watch.
XEC, first identified in Germany in June, is a recombinant variant, meaning it’s a hybrid of two preexisting Omicron subvariants, KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. It has been detected in several countries across Europe, including Denmark, France, the Netherlands, and the UK, as well as in Canada, the US, and China. Although not yet dominant in the US, its presence has been confirmed in multiple states, including California.
What Makes XEC a Potential Threat?
XEC’s potential for dominance stems from a key mutation that is hypothesized to make it more transmissible than previous strains. Experts believe that this mutation allows the virus to bind more tightly to cells, potentially making it more infectious and even more immune-evasive. This could mean that XEC might be able to infect individuals who have previously been infected with other Omicron variants or who have been vaccinated.
Symptoms and Severity
The good news is that, like other Omicron variants, XEC is not expected to cause more severe illness than its predecessors. The symptoms associated with XEC are similar to those of previous variants and include fever or chills, cough, fatigue, muscle aches, sore throat, congestion, and gastrointestinal issues.
Vaccine Effectiveness
While the current updated COVID-19 vaccines were formulated to target earlier Omicron strains, experts are confident that they will still offer protection against XEC, especially against severe illness and hospitalization. The vaccines are expected to provide a buffer of several weeks, reducing the chances of infection and the risk of long COVID.
Recommendations and Precautions
Health officials continue to emphasize the importance of vaccination in protecting against COVID-19, including the XEC variant. It is recommended that individuals get vaccinated or boosted, especially if they are at higher risk of severe illness, such as older adults and immunocompromised individuals. Experts suggest scheduling vaccination or boosters for late September or October, ahead of the anticipated winter surge in respiratory illnesses.
In addition to vaccination, other precautions, such as wearing masks in crowded indoor settings and practicing good hygiene, can help reduce the risk of infection.
Looking Ahead
While the emergence of XEC underscores the ongoing evolution of the COVID-19 virus, the experience gained over the past few years and the availability of effective vaccines and treatments mean that we are better equipped to manage the challenges posed by new variants. Continued monitoring of XEC’s spread and its impact on public health will be crucial in informing future strategies for mitigating the pandemic’s effects.
Disclaimer: Please remember that this information is intended for general knowledge and awareness. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult with your healthcare provider for specific guidance regarding your health and any concerns you may have about COVID-19.
