New XEC Covid variant - everything we know from key symptoms to getting testing kits
A new and highly transmissible Covid variant is on its way to becoming the most dominant in the UK, as experts are urging Brits to get their autumn vaccines ahead of time
by Zahra Khaliq · ChronicleLiveA new, highly contagious Covid variant named XEC is set to surge cases in the UK by Thursday, with experts urging Brits to get their autumn vaccines ahead of time.
This evolved strain, emerging from Omicron, is more transmissible than its predecessors and is on the path to becoming the most dominant Covid strain in the country. Experts have warned that it might account for more than half of the UK's Covid infections by Thursday.
Australian data scientist Mike Honey remarked: "For the UK, XEC is showing a strong growth advantage of 4.9% per day (34% per week) over the DeFLuQE variants, which predicts a crossover in mid-October."
Following this, the NHS has issued a warning that Britain could be on the brink of a 'tripledemic' of viruses this winter season. Without effective vaccination against flu, covid-19, and RSV as we head into a potentially difficult winter, public health chiefs warn that these three viruses could merge into a formidable 'tripledemic'.
This cautionary stance comes after Australia witnessed thousands hospitalised by these viruses during their winter period, which often acts as an early indicator for Britain, reports the Mirror.
Here's what we currently know about the newly detected XEC variant and steps you can take to avoid illness this coming winter.
What are the signature symptoms linked to the new XEC Variant?
It's understood that the XEC variant stems from a cross-over between two previously known Omicron subvariants, KS. 1.1 and KP.3.3.
A "recombinant variant" is causing concern among health experts as it emerges from the combination of two separate variants infecting a host simultaneously, leading to an exchange of genetic material. This process has given rise to a new variant that inherits traits from both "parent" lineages.
The variant known as KS. 1.1 falls under the category often referred to as "FLiRT" variants, while KP.3.3 belongs to the "FLuQE" group. Both have been linked to recent spikes in Covid infections worldwide.
Symptoms mirror those of earlier variants, including fever, body aches, fatigue, and respiratory symptoms like coughing or a sore throat. These groups are associated with the latest global increases in Covid cases.
In a conversation with the LA Times, Eric Topol, who heads the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, remarked that the XEC variant is "just getting started". He elaborated: "And that's going to take many weeks, a couple of months, before it really takes hold and starts to cause a wave. XEC is definitely taking charge."
Guidance on obtaining a test kit
The NHS has updated its guidance, indicating that individuals with symptoms are no longer required to take a COVID-19 rapid lateral flow test. However, if you feel unwell or suspect Covid symptoms, it's advised to stay at home and minimise contact with others to curb the spread of the virus.
Although routine Covid testing is not currently advocated, tests remain available for purchase, costing approximately £2, from High Street and online pharmacies.
Eligibility for free vaccines or booster shots
Since October, the NHS has kicked off its flu and Covid booster and vaccination campaign, yet currently, only select groups are entitled to receive free jabs.
Priority for the free vaccinations is being given to people over 65 years of age, occupants of elderly care homes, individuals with clinical risk factors, and frontline health and social care professionals. These communities are strongly encouraged to get vaccinated as part of the overarching Autumn Covid booster initiative.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) Deputy Director, Dr Gayatri Amirthalingam, calls on those who have been approached by the NHS to arrange their autumn vaccines promptly.
Speaking about the situation, Dr Gayatri remarked: "It is normal and expected for viruses to genetically change over time. UKHSA continues to monitor all available information relating to emerging Covid variants in the UK and internationally and to publish our data regularly. Vaccination provides the best protection against serious illness from Covid-19, and we urge those who are contacted by the NHS to come forward to receive their autumn vaccine."
For individuals not included in the eligibility bracket for a free jab, High Street pharmacies and private clinics are also administering Covid vaccinations, with costs set between £45 and £99.
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