A new 'stronger' Covid variant is spreading across Europe and the world, as experts warn it is 'just getting started'.
According to experts, the strain could become the dominant variant within months when the weather gets cold.
Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California Eric Topol said XEC is 'just getting started now around the world and here'.
Speaking to the LA Times, he added: 'And that's going to take many weeks, a couple months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave.
'XEC is definitely taking charge. That does appear to be the next variant.
'But it's months off from getting into high levels.'
Regional chief of infectious diseases for Kaiser Permanente Southern California Dr Elizabeth Hudson said health experts will continue to monitor the variant in the coming weeks.
Dr Hudson said that XEC has been reported in western Europe including Germany and the Netherlands and it is spreading quickly.
XEC has shown up in the US but its prevalence is low so far.
Symptoms of the XEC Variant
Most people will get better within a few weeks, but for others it could take longer to recover and some may even require hospitalisation.
Also, usual cold-like symptoms such as a headache, a sore throat, a blocked or runny nose are common as well as a loss of appetite, diarrhoea, feeling sick or being sick
How to Protect Yourself
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 jabs. While vaccines may not completely prevent infection, they remain the most effective defense against serious illness, hospitalisation, and death.
Wearing a face covering, especially in crowded or poorly ventilated indoor spaces, could also help protect you from the virus, particularly if you're at risk or live with someone who is more susceptible to severe illness. If possible, improving indoor ventilation can help lower the risk of infection.
It's also advised to keep a 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 self-isolate to prevent further spread of the virus.
What's the Latest Situation in the UK?
The UK's latest figures show there has been a 4.3 per cent uptick in Covid cases week-on-week.
England also reported 102 deaths linked to Covid up until August 30.
During the same period, hospitals noted 1,465 Covid admissions.
But the UK Health Agency has not yet provided detailed data about the XEC variant.
What Happens if You Test Positive
The NHS has issued guidance for those who test positive or exhibit Covid symptoms, advising rest and hydration. To ease discomfort, paracetamol or ibuprofen may be taken.
For coughs, a teaspoon of honey is suggested, but not for infants under one year. In case of breathlessness, the advice includes lowering room temperature, sitting upright, relaxing shoulders, leaning forward slightly, and breathing slowly "in through your nose and out through your mouth, with your lips together like you're gently blowing out a candle."
Looking Ahead
The arrival of XEC comes after warnings of the FLiRT variant sweeping across the UK in spring and summer this year.
FLiRT was used to describe a family of variants, KP.2, KP.3, JN.1.7, JN.1.1, and KP.1.1 which were all descendants of the JN.1 variant.
The spread of XEC and its potential impact on the upcoming winter months are being closely monitored by health authorities worldwide. It’s important to stay informed about the latest developments and to follow the recommended guidelines for protecting yourself and your community.
