New Coronavirus Variant “XEC”: What You Need to Know

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a new coronavirus variant, known as “XEC,” has been detected in 28 countries worldwide. The XEC variant is a combination of the “KS.1.1 and KP.3.3” variants, both of which are derived from the Omicron variant.

Understanding the Emergence of XEC

WHO communications officer Amna Ismailbegovic explained that the emergence of XEC is a result of a recombination process, where two mutants infect the same person and exchange genetic material to create a new mutant. This phenomenon is common among coronaviruses and is considered an expected mutational phenomenon.

Global Detection of XEC

The XEC variant was first detected in May, and as of September 18, 28 countries have reported cases of the new mutant. The WHO is currently reviewing available data to determine if XEC should be classified as a variant of concern.

Symptoms of the XEC Variant

The symptoms of the XEC variant are similar to those of other coronavirus variants and include:

• Nasal congestion or runny nose and sore throat
• Fatigue, headache, and cough
• Muscle or body aches
• Fever, chills, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea
• New loss of taste or smell and shortness of breath or difficulty breathing