XEC, new COVID variant spreading across Europe: symptoms and spread
Since its initial discovery in Germany last June option HEC belonging COVID-19 began to quickly spread across Europe and other continents. With more than 1115 cases reported worldwide, the variant has raised alarm among health authorities due to its highly contagious and to increased severe symptoms in some patients.
Most common symptoms of COVID XEC variant
Symptoms XEC option include:
- frequent cough
- High temperature high
- Difficulty breathing
- extreme fatigue
- Loss of smell and taste
- muscle pain
Additionally, other symptoms include nasal congestion, headache, runny nose, vomit And diarrhea. This range of symptoms is similar to those of a cold or flu, which can be confusing and make initial diagnosis difficult. Although many patients recover quickly, others may experience more severe symptoms and require hospitalization.
Expansion of the XEC option and the risk of dominance
According to Dr. Helen Wallclinical director of population health, the variant is becoming increasingly common and could become the dominant strain in Europe. Evidence suggests that option very contagiousalthough researchers are still studying whether its aggressiveness makes it more dangerous than previous variants.
He Professor Francois Ballouxbelonging University College Londonasserts that this XEC variant is more contagious and, although from the same family as Omicronhas some differences that make it easier to transfer.
Do vaccines protect against this new variant?
Because the XEC variant comes from the Omicron family, experts believe current vaccines should offer effective protection. However, due to the rapid spread of this variant, this strain is expected to persist throughout the winter, which may represent increase in respiratory infections in the coming months.
Thanks to its confirmed presence in 29 countriesincluding United Kingdom, France, Ireland, Spain And USAThe public is advised to take additional precautions and observe health recommendations Acts to reduce the risk of infection and keep you healthy during the winter months.