UK Health Authorities Monitor New COVID Variant XEC

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has reported a new strain of COVID-19, termed XEC, which is a combination of the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 variants. The strain was first identified in May by the World Health Organization (WHO), and recent data indicate a notable increase in the incidence rate of patients testing positive for XEC, with figures reaching 4.5 per 100,000 people as of October 6, up from 3.7 the previous week.

Experts believe that XEC is more transmissible due to its numerous mutations. However, the symptoms associated with this strain, such as tiredness, headaches, sore throat, and high temperatures, are similar to those of other COVID variants. Despite rising cases, legal requirements for self-isolation have been lifted in the UK, though public health authorities advise those testing positive to avoid contact with others for at least five days.

Dr. Jamie Lopez Bernal, a consultant epidemiologist at UKHSA, stated, “Current information doesn’t suggest we should be more concerned about this variant, but we are monitoring this closely.” The agency acknowledges the public’s concern regarding new variants but has not issued any specific alarms about XEC.

XEC is related to the Omicron family of COVID variants and emerged as a result of genetic recombination between two existing strains. The WHO’s recent COVID update cites that XEC is becoming more prevalent globally, although it still accounts for a minor percentage of cases compared to other dominant strains like KP.3.3.

Amid the increasing prevalence of XEC, the NHS continues its vaccination campaign. It is offering COVID booster vaccines along with flu and RSV vaccinations to vulnerable groups, including adults aged 65 and over, healthcare workers, pregnant women, and those with underlying health conditions.

Health authorities have advised individuals displaying symptoms of COVID to stay at home and avoid contact with others, as a preventive measure against spreading the virus.