Three symptoms of new Covid variant XEC as it spreads across Europe

Wales Online ^ | 16 SEP 2024 | Ellie Gosley, Susie Beever

[nickcarraway]

The XEC strain was first detected in Germany back in June and is predicted to become one of the dominant strains this winter

Scientists are warning that the latest emerging Covid variant is spreading across Europe, with three key symptoms to watch out for. The XEC strain was first detected in Germany back in June and has since been confirmed in 15 different countries.

Experts believe the variant is "just getting started" and could become the dominant strain over the winter. Dr. Elizabeth Hudson, regional chief of infectious diseases for Kaiser Permanente Southern California, told the LA Times last month that XEC appeared to be showing a "growth advantage" over the JN.1 variant and was "definitely" one to keep an eye on. However, she added that Covid vaccinations should continue to work against this emerging strain.

One of the three key symptoms of the new variant is slightly different to previously identifiable signs of the virus. A loss of appetite is billed as one of the main symptoms, in addition to a blocked or runny nose, and a new and continuous cough.

Public health experts have urged anyone with these symptoms to stay at home, reports the Mirror. For the latest health and Covid news, sign up to our newsletter here

The latest figures show a 4.3% increase week on week in Covid cases in the UK. This rise is expected as schools return from the summer holidays and the weather turns colder. The NHS website currently states Brits should "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you or your child have symptoms."

Other symptoms of XEC are akin to previous strains, including a high temperature (38. X or above), a loss or change in your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, tiredness, aches, a sore throat, headache, diarrhoea and nausea.

The NHS emphasises that while caution is necessary, any or a combination of these symptoms does not necessarily indicate you have coronavirus. They could be signs of another infection or disease, or nothing serious at all. However, self-isolation will help curb the potential spread of Covid and is important to protect others, particularly the vulnerable, from being hit by this unpleasant variant.

Doctors also advise Brits to stay current with vaccines and booster shots. Vaccines may not completely prevent infection but they remain the most effective defence against severe illness, hospitalisation and death.

[AppyPappy]

It’s going through the nursing home here. It’s a cold.

[unread]

"However, she added that Covid vaccinations should continue to work against this emerging strain."

:-) Really??

[Inspectorette]

I’ve got it right now. Started with scratchy throat last Friday, full-blown respiratory symptoms Saturday, plus body aches Sunday. Tested yesterday ($23.99 for test at Walgreen’s!) tested positive. This is my third go-round. Had first two shots in 2021 no more since then. Not getting flu shot either.

[ProtectOurFreedom]

I had the first two shots and one booster, then stopped.

I’ve been getting the flu vaccine for a couple decades with no problems and will get it in a week or two. I’m considering the RSV vaccine, too.

Hope you feel better.

I’ve been taking the Zinc, NAC, Melatonin, Vit C, Vit D and Quercetin regiment since this started in 2020. I have no way of knowing, but I think that has helped reduce the severity and longevity of the COVID infections. I can’t say it reduced the frequency of getting sick since it only five months since Round #2.

I added Elderberry a couple months ago, too.