The XEC strain is said to be a hybrid of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. It was first discovered in Germany in June, but has since been detected in 15 countries on three continents.

Citing experts from the US, the Mirror said that Covid XEC would become the dominant variant.

“XEC is just beginning to be used worldwide,” Eric Topol, director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, told the Mirror.

Covid XEC symptoms

The symptoms of the XEC variant are similar to those of other Covid-19 variants and common illnesses such as colds and flu. The National Health Service (NHS) lists the main symptoms as follows:

– High temperature or chills
– New, persistent cough
– Loss or change in the sense of smell or taste
– Shortness of breath
– Feeling tired or exhausted
– Body aches
– Headache
– Sore throat
– Stuffy or runny nose
– Loss of appetite
– Diarrhea
– Feeling sick or being sick

Covid XEC Precautions

• Get vaccinated if you haven’t already.
• Take a booster dose to stay on track.
• Wear face masks, especially in crowded areas.
• If possible, avoid large gatherings of people.
• Maintain physical distance from others.
• Make sure you practice good hygiene, such as washing your hands regularly.
• Isolate yourself if you have any of the symptoms listed above to prevent further spread of the virus.

New subtypes of the omicron variant have been seen spreading in the United States since April. The CDC estimates that these variants, known as FLiRT subvariants, currently account for about 80% of infections in the country. Excluding results from at-home tests, 17% of all COVID tests were positive in the week ending August 24, according to the CDC.