The latest COVID variant, XEC, has been making headlines due to its rapid spread across Europe, North America, and Asia, with at least 27 countries reporting cases. But what do we really know about this new variant, and what can we expect in the coming months?

First, let's answer the question on everyone's mind: what is XEC? In simple terms, XEC is a recombinant of two previous variants, KP.3.3 and KS.1.1, which means it's a new strain created by the combination of genetic material from these two variants. According to Dr. Albert Ko, an infectious disease physician, when a person is infected with two different SARS-CoV-2 variants, they can get a recombination, which creates a new strain.

So, is XEC more transmissible? The answer is yes, it appears to be. Dr. William Schaffner, a professor of infectious diseases, says that XEC is "quite contagious" and "very easily spread." The virus is spread through respiratory droplets produced when an infected person breathes, talks, coughs, or sneezes.

But will XEC cause a fall surge in the US? The experts are unsure, as the timing and severity of COVID-19 surges are difficult to predict. However, it's clear that respiratory virus season is approaching, and viruses like SARS-CoV-2 and influenza are spread more readily in the winter when people spend time together indoors.

In terms of symptoms, XEC doesn't appear to be causing any distinctive symptoms or more severe disease. The symptoms are similar to those caused by previous omicron variants, including sore throat, cough, fatigue, headache, and congestion.

Now, about the COVID vaccine: the updated vaccine for 2024-2025 is available and recommended by the CDC for everyone ages six months and older. The good news is that the new mRNA vaccines are monovalent, which means they target one variant — in this case, it's the previously dominant KP.2 variant. According to Dr. Andrew Pekosz, professor of molecular microbiology and immunology, the updated vaccine will provide protection against severe disease caused by XEC.

Finally, what can you do to protect yourself against XEC? The experts recommend getting vaccinated, staying home if you're sick, and returning to normal activities only if you have been fever-free and symptoms have been improving for at least 24 hours. Antivirals like Paxlovid are still effective and recommended, particularly for people at high risk for severe disease.

Will XEC Be the Next COVID Storm?

Actions