Covid XEC symptoms: Common signs of new variant could 'show up in specific order'

The new Covid XEC variant is spreading across the UK, with symptoms that can be easily confused with flu and respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) - but doctors say there is a specific order to look out for

Brits are bracing themselves against a triple threat this winter as cases of the new XEC variant of Covid-19 rise, coinciding with low flu jab uptake and an increase in respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) infections.

The symptoms of these illnesses may appear similar on paper, but a study from the University of Southern California has pinpointed the exact sequence in which Covid-19 symptoms typically occur, potentially aiding in distinguishing it from other winter ailments.

Experts have advised individuals who notice this specific symptom progression to get tested for Covid-19 and to self-isolate. Dr Robert Glatter told Healthline about how to tell the difference between the flu and this: "Patients with seasonal flu more commonly developed a cough before the onset of fever."

Additionally, keeping track of the order of symptoms could be crucial for healthcare providers in terms of treatment. Joseph Larsen, lead study author and USC Dornsife doctoral candidate, stated: "Knowing that each illness progresses differently means that doctors can identify sooner whether someone likely has COVID-19, or another illness, which can help them make better treatment decisions."

The new XEC Covid strain is making headlines as it mirrors previous variants, being a mix of Omicron subvariants. Dr Monica Gandhi, MD, MPH, from the University of California, has said: "The symptoms seem to be the same as with other recent subvariants of Omicron," reports Surrey Live.

She also pointed out that certain groups, including those who are immunocompromised, elderly, or not immune, might experience more severe lower respiratory tract symptoms, potentially leading to conditions such as pneumonia.

Meanwhile, Covid-19 hospital admissions in England are on the rise, though they remain relatively low. The latest figures show an admission rate of 4.5 per 100,000 people for the week ending October 6, up from 3.7 the previous week.

This marks the fourth consecutive weekly increase, as reported by the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA). Comparatively, last year saw rates at 6.2 per 100,000 before a decline, and then a peak of 5.2 over the Christmas period.

Back in the winter of 2020/21, during the early stages of the pandemic, admission rates reached as high as 36.5 per 100,000.