Full list of new XEC Covid symptoms as expert warns it is 'just getting started'

Well-protected medical staff performs swab test for Covid-19 to a young blonde female patient.
-Credit: (Image: Getty Images)


A new Covid strain is reportedly rapidly spreading across Europe, which has been deemed "more contagious" than earlier forms. Experts say the Omicron-derived XEC variant might soon take over as the dominant strain on the continent.

Sharing insights via Twitter, Eric Topol from the Scripps Research Translational Institute stated: "At this juncture, the XEC variant appears to be the most likely one to get legs next". Dr Topol further expressed that "XEC is definitely taking charge," while noting the strain is in its early stages worldwide and in California.

In an interview with the LA Times, he remarked: "And that's going to take many weeks, a couple months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave."

With the first case identified in Germany on June 15, there's concern that colder weather may exacerbate the rise in infections, reports the Express.

Full list of XEC Covid variant symptoms:

  • Shortness of breath

  • High fever

  • Persistent cough

  • Loss of taste or smell

  • A fatigued or exhausted feeling