Tue Sep 17 12:53:12 UTC 2024: ## New Covid Variant XEC Spreading Rapidly Across Europe

**LONDON, UK** – A new Covid-19 variant, dubbed XEC, is spreading rapidly across Europe, raising concerns among health officials. First identified in Germany in June, the variant has now reached over 13 countries.

XEC is a recombinant variant, combining the omicron subvariants KS.1.1 and KP.3.3. KS.1.1, a FLiRT variant, is already contributing to rising Covid cases globally. KP.3.3, a FLuQE variant, possesses a mutation in its spike protein, making it more efficient at binding to human cells.

According to experts, XEC carries additional mutations, highlighting the importance of vaccination and booster shots. The UK’s National Health Service (NHS) is offering free booster shots to those at increased risk of severe illness from Covid-19.

Covid data analyst Mike Honey reported a surge in XEC cases in Denmark and Germany (16-17%) and significant growth in the UK and Netherlands (11-13%). Honey noted that XEC is poised to challenge the currently dominant DeFLuQE variants.

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) emphasized that viral mutations are a natural occurrence. Symptoms of XEC are similar to those of previous omicron variants, including fever, sore throat, cough, body aches, fatigue, and loss of appetite. While most people recover within a few weeks, some may experience longer recovery times.

Despite the emergence of new variants, vaccines remain effective against all known strains of Covid-19. Since XEC is a lineage of the omicron variant, existing vaccines can help protect individuals from the virus.

Read More