What You Need to Know About the New Covid XEC Strain and Its Symptoms

Are you aware of the latest Covid variant, XEC? This strain is rapidly spreading and could impact global health guidelines. Understanding its symptoms and vaccination options is crucial for everyone.

A new strain of Covid, known as XEC, is surging in the UK, leading to increased hospital admissions, the UK Health Security Agency reported on Friday. Here's what you need to know about this variant and its potential impact on global health, particularly in the U.S.

A Covid variant, designated XEC, is spreading rapidly in the UK, sparking concerns among health officials. This strain, which belongs to the Omicron subvariant family, has been linked to a surge in hospital admissions, according to the latest data from the UK Health Security Agency. As of October 2023, XEC cases are rising notably, grabbing the attention of scientists who are closely monitoring its behavior and characteristics.

This new variant is not yet classified as a variant of concern by the World Health Organization or the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. However, both organizations are tracking the variant and may adjust their designations if necessary.

Meanwhile, another Covid variant, known as BQ.1.1, is also spreading quickly in the U.S. This subvariant of Omicron is now responsible for more than 70% of new Covid cases in the country, according to CDC estimates. Both XEC and BQ.1.1 are highly transmissible and can evade immunity from prior infection or vaccination to some extent.

As Covid variants continue to emerge and spread, it is crucial to stay up-to-date on the latest information and follow recommended precautions. These measures include getting vaccinated and boosted, wearing masks in crowded indoor settings, practicing good hand hygiene, and staying home if you feel sick.

By taking these steps, we can all help to slow the spread of Covid-19 and protect ourselves and our communities from the worst effects of the virus.