New Covid variant XEC spreads across multiple countries

A new Covid variant, identified as XEC, has been detected in several countries and could soon become the dominant strain, according to scientists. The variant, which was first discovered in Germany in June, has since emerged in the UK, US, Denmark, and other nations, including those frequently visited by Nigerians.

In Germany and Denmark, XEC now accounts for nearly 20% of recent samples tested, according to Covid data analyst Mike Honey, who shared the information on X (formerly known as Twitter).

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The XEC variant carries new mutations that could enhance its transmissibility in the coming months. However, experts remain confident that current vaccines will continue to provide protection against severe illness.

Eric Topol, Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute in California, noted that XEC is “just getting started” but warned that it could take several weeks or months before it triggers a significant wave of infections.

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Topol told the LA Times: “XEC is definitely taking charge. That does appear to be the next variant. But it’s months off from reaching high levels.”

The symptoms of XEC are expected to be similar to those of previous Covid strains, including cold or flu-like symptoms such as high temperature, body aches, fatigue, cough, and sore throat. Most individuals recover within a few weeks, although some may experience longer recovery periods.