The XEC variant carries mutations that might enhance its ability to spread this autumn, though experts believe that vaccines will continue to offer strong protection against severe illness. For those at higher risk of serious Covid complications, the NHS provides a free booster shot.
While current vaccines have been updated to address recent variants, they do not specifically target XEC, which has evolved from earlier Omicron subvariants. Professor Francois Balloux, Director of the Genetics Institute at University College London, told BBC News that XEC shows a “slight transmission advantage” but vaccines should still offer substantial protection. He added that it is possible XEC could become the predominant subvariant over the winter months.
Eric Topol, Director of the Scripps Research Translational Institute, stated that XEC is “just getting started” and it may take several weeks or even a few months before it causes a significant surge. “XEC is definitely taking charge,” Topol said. “But it’s months away from reaching high levels.”
Symptoms associated with the XEC variant are expected to be similar to those of previous Covid strains and include:
- High temperature
- Aches
- Fatigue
- Cough or sore throat
Most individuals recover from Covid within a few weeks, though full recovery can sometimes take longer. According to Covid data analyst Mike Honey, there has been significant growth of XEC in Denmark and Germany. However, reduced routine testing makes it challenging to gauge the current prevalence of Covid.
The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) notes that viral mutations are normal and to be expected. They continue to monitor emerging Covid variants both in the UK and internationally, publishing data regularly.
The NHS offers free booster vaccines to:
- Adults aged 65 and over
- Residents of care homes for older adults
- Individuals over six months old in clinical risk groups
- Certain front-line NHS, care-home, and social-care workers
The main vaccination campaign for flu and Covid is set to begin in October, though some individuals may receive their vaccines earlier. Dr. Gayatri Amirthalingam, UKHSA Deputy Director, emphasized the importance of vaccination in protecting against severe Covid illness and urged those eligible to receive their autumn booster.
