NEW COVID XEC VARIANT 'JUST GETTING STARTED' HAS THREE SYMPTOMS TO LOOK OUT FOR

The latest Covid variant, XEC, is spreading across Europe, according to scientists, who have identified three key symptoms to be aware of.

First detected in Germany in June, the XEC strain has since been confirmed in 15 different countries. Experts warn that the variant is "just getting started", with predictions it could become the dominant strain this winter.

Dr. Elizabeth Hudson, regional chief of infectious diseases for Kaiser Permanente Southern California, told the LA Times last month that XEC seemed to have a "growth advantage" over the JN. 1 variant and was "definitely" one to watch.

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However, she reassured that there was no reason why Covid vaccinations shouldn't continue to be effective against this emerging strain.

Doctors have now revealed the main symptoms of the XEC variant, one of which differs slightly from the usual signs of the virus. Loss of appetite is listed as one of the main symptoms of XEC, along with a blocked or runny nose, reports the Mirror.

A new and continuous cough is also a sign you may have contracted the variant. Public health experts are urging anyone with these symptoms to self-isolate.

Latest figures show a week-on-week increase of 4.3 percent in Covid cases in the UK, an expected rise as schools return after the summer holidays and the weather gets colder. The NHS website currently advises Brits to "try to stay at home and avoid contact with other people if you or your child have symptoms."

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Other symptoms of XEC are similar to previous strains, including a high temperature (38. X or above), a loss or change in your sense of smell or taste, shortness of breath, tiredness, aches, a sore throat, headache, diarrhea, and nausea.

The NHS emphasizes that while it's important to be cautious, any or a combination of these symptoms doesn't necessarily mean you've contracted coronavirus. They could be signs of another infection or disease, or nothing serious at all.

However, self-isolating - again - will help prevent the potential spread of Covid. It's a crucial step to protect others, especially the vulnerable, from being affected by this unpleasant variant.

Doctors also advise Brits to stay up-to-date with vaccines and booster shots. Vaccines may not completely prevent infection, but they remain the most effective defense against severe illness, hospitalization, and death.

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2024-09-16T08:59:47Z dg43tfdfdgfd