New XEC Covid variant is 'just getting started' - everything we know so far
Health experts across the globe have raised alarms about a new Covid variant known as XEC, which is on the rise and believed to be "just getting started".
The XEC strain - which is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants - was first detected in Germany in June but has now been identified in 15 countries across three continents. American expert Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, forecasts that XEC might soon become the prevalent strain, saying it's "just getting started now around the world and here".
Dr Elizabeth Hudson from Kaiser Permanente Southern California advises that health professionals are closely monitoring the variant, reports the Mirror.
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What should you watch out for with XEC?
Symptoms of the XEC variant resemble those common to most respiratory infections, such as colds and flu, and while many recover within weeks, some may take longer or develop more severe conditions necessitating hospital care.
For the latest Covid-19 symptom information, refer to the NHS guidelines.
In recent years, some Covid variants have been more severe than others. However, it will take a few weeks or months to determine if this is the case with XEC, as health experts need time to assess the severity of symptoms caused by this strain.
How can you stay safe?
The best way to protect yourself from the latest Covid variant is to continue taking the same precautions as before, including staying up-to-date with vaccines and booster shots. While vaccines may not completely prevent infection, they are still the most effective defence against serious illness, hospitalisation, and death.
Wearing a face mask, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, could also help protect you from the virus. This is particularly important if you are vulnerable or live with someone who is at higher risk of severe illness.
If possible, improving indoor ventilation can help lower the risk of infection. It's also recommended to maintain physical distance from others and avoid large gatherings. Good hygiene habits, such as thorough hand washing with soap and water, are crucial.
If you develop any symptoms or have been in contact with an infected person, you should isolate to prevent further spread of the virus.
According to the NHS, the latest Covid-19 symptoms can include:
a high temperature or shivering (chills) – a high temperature means you feel hot to touch on your chest or back (you do not need to measure your temperature)
a new, continuous cough – this means coughing a lot for more than an hour, or 3 or more coughing episodes in 24 hours
a loss or change to your sense of smell or taste
shortness of breath
feeling tired or exhausted
an aching body
a headache
a sore throat
a blocked or runny nose
loss of appetite
diarrhoea
feeling sick or being sick
What to do if you test positive
The NHS advises that if you test positive for Covid or exhibit symptoms, rest and hydration are crucial. To ease discomfort, over-the-counter medications like paracetamol or Ibuprofen may be taken.
For a cough, a teaspoon of honey is suggested, but it's important not to give honey to infants under the age of one. In case of breathlessness, the NHS suggests reducing room temperature or getting fresh air, sitting up straight, relaxing shoulders, and leaning forward slightly.
It's recommended to breathe "in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your lips together like you're gently blowing out a candle."
What's the current situation with Covid cases?
Recent UK statistics indicate a 4.3% rise in Covid cases from the previous week. England reported 102 Covid-related deaths up to August 30.
During the same period, 1,465 individuals were hospitalised due to Covid. It should be noted that detailed data on the XEC variant has not yet been provided by the UK Health Security Agency.