A new and more contagious variant of the Covid-19 virus, known as XEC, is rapidly spreading across Europe and poses a risk of becoming the dominant strain in the near future. This variant, a sublineage of the Omicron variant, was first detected in Berlin, Germany, in June 2023 and has since spread to multiple countries across Europe, North America and Asia.
What is the XEC Variant?
XEC is a hybrid of two Omicron subvariants—KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. These subvariants bring together specific mutations on the virus’s spike protein, the component it uses to attach to human cells. KS.1.1 has alterations in two key building block molecules (phenylalanine to leucine, and arginine to threonine), making it part of the FLiRT category. KP.3.3, on the other hand, belongs to the FLuQE category, where glutamine is replaced by glutamic acid, increasing its efficiency in binding to human cells. Together, these mutations give XEC a distinct advantage in transmission.
How Fast is the XEC Variant Spreading?
The XEC variant has gained a foothold across several countries, including Slovenia, where it accounted for more than 10% of Covid cases in August 2023. Recent data suggests it is growing at an increasing rate in countries like Denmark, Germany, the UK and the Netherlands. According to Covid data analyst Mike Honey, the variant is spreading “quite rapidly” and is now a cause for concern among researchers, who believe it could outcompete earlier variants of Omicron.
Symptoms of the XEC Variant
The symptoms of XEC are similar to previous Covid variants. These include:
- Fever
- Sore throat
- Cough
- Loss of sense of smell
- Loss of appetite
- Body aches
Though the symptoms mirror earlier versions of the virus, experts stress that vaccination and booster shots still offer substantial protection against severe illness and hospitalizations caused by XEC.
Preventive Measures and Current Response
Health experts are urging people to remain vigilant, keep up with vaccinations and continue practising good hygiene. The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also recommends steps to improve indoor air quality, a key measure to prevent the spread of airborne viruses like Covid-19.
Researchers have called for close monitoring of the XEC variant to better understand its spread, symptoms and potential impact on global public health.
FAQ About the XEC Variant
1. What is the XEC variant?
The XEC variant is a new sublineage of the Omicron variant of the Covid-19 virus. It is a hybrid of two previously identified subvariants, KS.1.1 and KP.3.3, and contains mutations that make it more contagious.
2. Where has the XEC variant been detected?
The XEC variant was first reported in Berlin, Germany, in June 2023. It has since spread across Europe, North America, and Asia, with significant growth in countries like Denmark, Germany, Slovenia and the UK.
3. Is the XEC variant more dangerous?
While XEC is more contagious, its symptoms are similar to those of other Omicron variants. Vaccines and booster shots remain effective in preventing severe illness and hospitalization.
4. How can I protect myself from the XEC variant?
Staying up to date with Covid vaccinations and boosters, practising good hygiene, wearing masks in crowded places, and ensuring proper ventilation in indoor spaces can help reduce the risk of infection.
5. Are new lockdowns or restrictions expected?
At this stage, there are no immediate plans for lockdowns, but public health officials are closely monitoring the spread of the XEC variant to determine if additional measures may be required.
In conclusion, while the XEC variant is a rapidly growing threat, following health guidelines and maintaining vaccination schedules can help mitigate its impact.