Experts say the variant is particularly transmissible and has some new mutations that might help it spread this autumn
Scientists have issued a warning about a new Covid variant, XEC, which could become the dominant strain in the UK and trigger a spike in cases this winter.
Health experts suggest that while XEC carries mutations that may help it spread during the autumn months, existing vaccines are expected to remain effective against severe illness. Professor Francois Balloux from University College London's Genetics Institute told BBC News that XEC has a "slight transmission advantage" but reassured that vaccinations should continue to provide strong protection.
The Gavi Vaccine Alliance reported that XEC is the product of a recombination between the KS.1.1 variant and the KP.3.3 variant. These two variants both evolved from JN.1, which was the dominant variant around the world at the start of 2024. Gavi said: "XEC has very similar genetic material to both its parent variants as well other circulating variants, which are mostly derived from JN.1.
Symptoms So far, symptoms of XEC are reported to be the same cold or flu-like ones as before. These include:While there are no longer self-isolation rules in place in the UK, the NHS advises staying home and avoiding contact with others where possible if you display symptoms.The NHS will contact eligible patients directly, but they can also book their own appointments now via the NHS App, external, GPs, pharmacies, drop-in clinics, external or by calling 119.
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