New XEC Covid symptoms as variant 'more contagious' than Omicron spreads across Europe

A newly detected Covid variant is sweeping through Europe, labelled as "more contagious" than some of the earlier strains. Known as XEC, which has evolved from Omicron, could soon be the predominant strain throughout Europe, experts claim.

On a social media post, Eric Topol, who heads the Scripps Research Translational Institute in La Jolla, highlighted the threat: "At this juncture, the XEC variant appears to be the most likely one to get legs next", reports the Express. Dr Topol further emphasised, stating: "XEC is definitely taking charge,".

He also noted the new strain's global progression: "just getting started now around the world and here [California]." While speaking with the LA Times, Dr Topol provided further insight: "And that's going to take many weeks, a couple months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave."

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Initially identified in Germany on June 15, there's an apprehension that upcoming colder temperatures could spike the infection rates markedly. Everyone should be aware of the full list of symptoms similar to cold and flu.

Symptoms to be watchful for include:.

- Feelings of breathlessness.

- High temperature.

- Persistent coughing.

- Loss of taste or smell sensations.

- Sensation of fatigue or extreme tiredness.