A new COVID-19 variant called XEC is rapidly spreading across Europe. It was first detected in Germany in June 2024 and has now been identified in many other countries, including the UK, Denmark, and the Netherlands. With colder months approaching, this variant has raised concerns among health officials as it could become the dominant strain this winter. Although it is still being monitored closely, the XEC variant already makes up more than 10% of all COVID infections in some parts of Europe.
In this article, we’ll discuss everything you need to know about this new variant—what it is, its symptoms, and how you can protect yourself.
What is the XEC Variant?
XEC is a recombinant variant. This means it’s a blend of two subvariants of the Omicron strain—KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. Scientists explain that XEC emerged from the BA.2.86 lineage, which has been around for almost a year. Omicron itself has gone through multiple subvariants since it first appeared. However, XEC shows a slight increase in transmissibility compared to others.
While it’s more contagious than some of the other variants circulating, it is not causing a huge surge in cases—yet. Scientists expect that COVID cases might rise again as the weather gets colder, but they also note that vaccines and previous infections should still offer protection against severe illness.
How Does XEC Spread?
Like other COVID-19 variants, XEC spreads primarily through respiratory droplets when people cough, sneeze, or talk. Indoor settings, especially those with poor ventilation, can heighten the risk of infection. People can also contract the virus by touching contaminated surfaces and then touching their face.
Health experts are particularly concerned about the coming months because colder weather often forces people indoors, where the virus spreads more easily. While XEC is not causing an overwhelming number of cases at the moment, its spread is increasing rapidly, especially in Central Europe.
Where is XEC Spreading?
As of mid-September 2024, XEC has been detected in at least 13 countries, with significant growth in Germany, Denmark, the UK, and the Netherlands. In these regions, it is already responsible for 10-16% of new COVID-19 infections.
Cases are still low in other parts of the world, such as the US and Canada, but experts are watching the variant closely.
Symptoms of the XEC Variant
The symptoms of the XEC variant are similar to those of previous COVID strains, especially the Omicron variants. These include:
- Fever
- Cough
- Sore throat
- Loss of smell or taste
- Body aches
- Fatigue
- Headaches
- Congestion
However, some people may experience more severe symptoms, including shortness of breath, muscle pain, nausea, and diarrhea.
Since these symptoms overlap with those of the flu or common cold, it’s important to stay vigilant and get tested if you feel unwell.
One concerning aspect of XEC is that some people are dismissing its symptoms as a simple cold or seasonal flu. This can make it harder to track the spread of the virus, as many individuals might not even realize they are infected. If you experience any of the symptoms mentioned, it’s crucial to get tested and follow public health guidelines to prevent further transmission.
Why is XEC Concerning?
While XEC is not causing a wave of hospitalizations yet, it has a few characteristics that make it worth watching. First, its higher transmissibility means that it could potentially outcompete other variants, becoming the dominant strain in the coming months. This would lead to a rise in cases, especially as more people spend time indoors during the winter.
Second, like many Omicron variants, XEC can evade immunity more effectively than earlier strains. While vaccines and prior infections still provide protection against severe disease, they may be less effective at preventing mild or asymptomatic infections.
This means that even people who have had COVID before or are fully vaccinated could still catch and spread XEC.
Are Vaccines Still Effective Against XEC?
The good news is that existing vaccines are still expected to provide significant protection against XEC. Since this variant is not a major departure from the Omicron strain, the immunity built up from vaccines and previous infections should help reduce the severity of illness. Many countries are rolling out updated COVID vaccines for the 2024-2025 season, which target Omicron subvariants like XEC.
The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has recommended that everyone aged six months and older receive an updated COVID vaccine to bolster their immunity. In the UK, the National Health Service (NHS) is also offering free booster shots to people who are at high risk of severe illness.
How to Protect Yourself from XEC
There are several steps you can take to protect yourself from the XEC variant and COVID-19 in general:
- Get vaccinated: If you haven’t received your COVID vaccine yet, or if it’s been a while since your last shot, make sure to get the updated 2024-2025 booster. Vaccination remains one of the most effective ways to prevent severe illness.
- Maintain good hygiene: Washing your hands frequently with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is still one of the best ways to protect yourself from COVID-19. Hand sanitizer can also be effective if you don’t have access to soap and water.
- Wear a mask in crowded spaces: In areas where XEC is spreading rapidly, it might be wise to wear a mask in crowded indoor settings. Masks can help reduce the spread of respiratory droplets, which carry the virus.
- Improve indoor air quality: Good ventilation is key to reducing the risk of airborne transmission. Opening windows or using air purifiers can help improve airflow, especially in crowded spaces
- Avoid close contact with sick people: If someone is showing symptoms of COVID-19, try to avoid close contact with them. Stay home if you feel unwell to prevent spreading the virus to others.
How Does XEC Compare to Other Variants?
XEC is not the only variant of concern right now. Several other subvariants are also circulating, including KP.3.1.1 and FLiRT, which were responsible for a summer surge in cases. However, scientists believe that XEC could soon surpass these variants in terms of transmission.
Compared to previous strains like Delta and Alpha, XEC is less likely to cause severe illness or hospitalization. However, it spreads more easily, making it a threat to vulnerable populations, such as the elderly or those with weakened immune systems.
Final Thoughts
The XEC variant is a reminder that COVID-19 is still evolving, and new variants will continue to emerge. While XEC is not currently causing a major wave of infections, its higher transmissibility means that it could become a dominant strain in the near future. The best way to protect yourself is to stay informed, get vaccinated, and follow public health guidelines.
As we head into the colder months, it’s important to remain vigilant. COVID is not over, and XEC may be one of the many variants we’ll have to contend with in the coming months. By taking precautions now, we can help prevent another wave of infections and keep ourselves and our communities safe.
Stay safe, stay informed, and take care!
