As the world continues to adapt to living alongside COVID-19, a new variant named XEC is sweeping across the globe, sparking concerns due to its aggressive symptoms. The XEC strain is a recombinant variant formed from the KP.3.3 and KS.1.1 strains, both linked to the highly contagious Omicron variant. Health experts, including Dr. Helen Wall, a Greater Manchester GP, are warning the public that this new variant is “wiping people out” due to its flu-like symptoms that seem far more severe than earlier variants.

The Symptoms: Exhaustion and More Flu-Like Effects

According to Dr. Wall, the current COVID cases resemble flu more than earlier iterations of the virus. Key symptoms include high fever, body aches, a persistent cough, and most notably, extreme exhaustion. The GP highlighted how this variant appears to incapacitate patients, with many being left bed-bound for days, contrasting with earlier strains where individuals could still function despite mild symptoms.

Why the XEC Variant Is Worrisome

Unlike previous strains, XEC seems to spread faster and affects individuals more severely, says Dr. Wall. As a recombinant variant, it takes on genetic characteristics from two strains, increasing its ability to spread. Public health officials believe that XEC may become the dominant global strain in the coming months, much like the Omicron variant before it. The overlap between cold, flu, and COVID symptoms makes it harder for individuals to recognize that they may be infected with the virus.

The Importance of Vaccination

Dr. Wall strongly urges people to get vaccinated, particularly with the NHS ramping up efforts for the “tripledemic” of winter illnesses—flu, COVID-19, and the newly available RSV vaccine. As testing rates drop, particularly due to the end of mass testing programs and the costs associated with lateral flow tests, the data on COVID-19 spread is becoming unreliable. With winter approaching, Dr. Wall is concerned that many people are dismissing vaccines due to fatigue over ongoing healthcare crises, but she insists that “you’ll be much sicker if you miss out” on this critical preventative measure.

As COVID-19 continues to evolve, staying informed and proactive is essential. The XEC variant presents a new threat with severe flu-like symptoms and fast transmission rates, emphasizing the need for continued vaccination efforts. As we brace for another winter season, getting your flu, COVID, and RSV vaccines will help prevent severe illness and hospitalizations.

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