Joy Emeh
Updated on: October 13, 2024 4:11 am GMT
As the world prepares for another respiratory virus season, health officials are keeping a close eye on a new strain of COVID-19 called XEC. Emerging from a mix of previous Omicron variants, XEC is garnering attention for its potentially higher transmission rates, sparking questions about its symptoms and whether current vaccines remain effective against it.
XEC Variant on the Rise
The XEC variant, classified as a recombinant strain, is a hybrid of two Omicron subtypes: KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. Discovered in Berlin in late June 2023, it has rapidly spread across Europe, North America, and Asia. According to data scientist Mike Honey, the variant is seeing significant case numbers in Germany, France, Denmark, and the Netherlands.
- Geographical Spread: XEC has been identified in at least 25 U.S. states, with over 100 confirmed sequences.
- Rapid Proliferation: Health experts note that due to its transmissibility, XEC could become the dominant strain in the United States this fall.
Dr. Joëlla W. Adams, an epidemiologist at RTI International, emphasizes that what happens in Europe is often a precursor for the U.S.: “Whenever we enter a season with multiple viruses, like flu and RSV, it complicates our situation,” says Adams.
Symptoms of XEC
Currently, there are no indications that the XEC variant produces unique or more severe symptoms compared to earlier Omicron strains. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) continues to list general COVID-19 symptoms, which include:
- Fever or chills
- Cough
- Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
- Fatigue
- Muscle or body aches
- Loss of taste or smell
According to Dr. William Schaffner, a professor at Vanderbilt University Medical Center, “It’s the same old, same old.” The symptoms can vary widely among individuals, with some experiencing mild illness and others suffering from severe symptoms.
Vaccines and Protection
While concerns about the efficacy of COVID-19 vaccines against the XEC variant remain, experts assert that the existing vaccines and booster shots are likely to provide protection. Adams highlights that while these vaccines weren’t developed specifically for XEC, they are formulated based on related strains that share enough similarities.
- CDC Recommendations: The CDC advises everyone aged six months and older to receive the updated COVID-19 vaccine for the 2024-2025 season.
- Effectiveness: “At this time, we anticipate that COVID-19 treatments and vaccines will continue to work against all circulating variants,” says CDC spokesperson Rosa Norman.
The Impact of Respiratory Virus Season
As fall approaches, respiratory viruses like COVID-19 tend to proliferate. Families gather indoors for holidays, and children return to school, all of which can contribute to a surge in cases. Historical data suggests that COVID-19 cases often peak in winter, influenced by indoor gatherings.
Dr. Schaffner notes, “I can firmly predict that there will be a winter increase. When and how robust that increase will be, I don’t know, but it should have nothing to do with your decision to get vaccinated.”
Looking Ahead
While XEC is under close observation by health officials, there is still uncertainty surrounding its future impact. Some experts predict it could drive a fall surge, while others remain cautious.
Dr. Albert Ko from Yale School of Public Health points out that the unpredictability of new variants remains a constant concern. “We don’t know how big that wave may be,” he adds.
while the emergence of the XEC variant raises flags, experts caution that it is still too early to determine the extent of its impact. The situation continues to develop, and continued monitoring by health organizations will be key in managing COVID-19’s evolution.
As we get further into the season for respiratory viruses, it’s really important to keep up with the latest information and follow health guidelines to stay safe.
