A new COVID-19 variant known as XEC has spread to 27 countries, including France and the United States (US), infecting more than 600 individuals. XEC, first detected in Germany in June, has since emerged in the United Kingdom (UK), US, Denmark, and other nations. The variant is a recombinant of two Omicron sub-variants, KS.
1.1 and KP.3.
3, and is believed to spread more rapidly than earlier strains. While the variant appears to be more transmissible, health experts have noted that cases are less severe compared to the peak years of the pandemic. Saturday Telegraph gathered that the vaccines are still expected to help prevent severe outcomes.
XEC has been identified through the Gisaid public database, which tracks mutations in the virus. The US has the highest number of XEC cases with 118, followed by Germany, the UK, Canada, and Denmark. Though not yet reported in Africa, experts warn that XEC may become the dominant global variant in the coming months due to its higher growth advantage.
XEC spreads primarily through respiratory droplets and has no distinct symptoms, with infected individuals experiencing typical COVID-19 symptoms such as sore throat, fever, and fatigue. Health authorities urge continued adherence to preventive measures such as mask-wearing, social distancing, and hand hygiene to minimise transmission..
