The potential threat posed by the novel coronavirus variant XEC is a matter of concern.
The chilly weather is back, and so is a familiar face: the coronavirus. medical professional Martin Stürmer thinks it's likely that we'll encounter another Covid surge this fall. "We need to prepare for a lot," Stürmer informs ntv. The virus keeps evolving and getting better at adapting, resulting in individuals still battling an infection for an extended period of time.
The Robert Koch Institute (RKI) weekly report right now also indicates that Covid numbers are increasing once more. Sars-CoV-2 is now responsible for 17 percent of all acute respiratory infections, with the trend climbing. The subline KP.3.1.1 is still the most prevalent (41 percent). However, a new corona variation is gaining ground quickly: XEC.
XEC was initially discovered in Germany in early July. Ever since, it has spread rapidly and is now found in 27 European countries, as well as North America and Asia. A significant increase in XEC has been observed in Denmark and Germany, shares data scientist Mike Honey on the platform X. According to the RKI, the new mutant is now responsible for 21 percent of Covid cases.
More contagious, but not more harmful
XEC is a hybrid variant derived from the two Omicron sublines K.S.1.1 and KP.3.3. Through alteration in the spike protein, it seems able to attach better to human cells and, consequently, is more contagious, according to experts. Should we be concerned?
No, according to virologist Stürmer. Despite the virus continuing to evolve and adapt, "we are still fortunate to be part of the Omicron group." So far, there's no evidence that XEC leads to more severe diseases or bypasses pre-established immunity with greater effectiveness. Therefore, it's "not more dangerous than what we've seen so far," Stürmer asserts. Both intensive care unit occupancy and hospital visits or death rates indicate that XEC doesn't exhibit stronger clinical effects.
The symptoms caused by XEC also seem to be similar to previously known ones, as initial findings suggest: fever, runny nose, cough, sore throat, occasional severe headache and body aches. Loss of taste and smell can also occur. People affected generally report mild illnesses.
"Long Covid remains an issue"
It's clear that with XEC, Covid numbers will rise again in the following weeks. The incidence has already more than doubled compared to the previous week, with 1,500 Covid cases per 100,000 inhabitants. The data originates from wastewater surveillance, the so-called "flu web," and individual practice reports. However, since few people are tested for Covid anymore and rapid positive tests aren't reported without a doctor's visit, it's likely that the undetected cases are significantly higher.
New corona variations "are something we'll have to live with in the future," says virologist Stürmer. "The virus will continue to adapt to us, and, consequently, there will always be new waves of illness." Nevertheless, it's important not to underestimate an infection. "Long Covid remains an issue," warns Stürmer. Therefore, it's crucial to take all necessary precautions to avoid an infection.
Since XEC doesn't differ fundamentally from other variants currently circulating, both vaccination and past COVID-19 infections continue to provide good protection against severe outcomes. However, the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKO) recommends a booster shot for individuals aged 60 and over, and those with weakened immune systems. Virologist Sandra Ciesek likewise advises, "Those belonging to high-risk groups, have weakened immune systems, or are likely to experience a severe course should consider getting vaccinated now to avoid infection during the wave."
Overall, Ciesek informed dpa that the situation is not alarming and not comparable to 2020 and 2021. "Essentially, it's like last year, just with different variants and letters."
In light of the increasing Covid numbers and the prevalence of the XEC variant, it's crucial for individuals to get vaccinated, especially those in high-risk groups or with weakened immune systems, as recommended by the Standing Committee on Vaccination (STIKI).
The chilly weather and the persistent nature of the coronavirus, as exemplified by the emergence and spread of new variants like XEC, emphasize the importance of regular vaccination against the coronavirus, as suggested by medical professionals and health organizations.
