Since the appearance of COVID-19 in 2019, the pandemic has experienced several waves marked by the appearance of new variants of SARS-CoV-2. The most recent, the XEC variant, has recently attracted the attention of health authorities around the world, particularly because of its ability to spread rapidly and become dominant in many regions.
While the virus is now considered a seasonal threat, particularly with the onset of winter and conditions conducive to respiratory viruses, the XEC variant represents a new development that deserves special attention.
The XEC variant was identified for the first time in Germany in June 2024. It is a recombinant variant, resulting from the fusion of two sublines of the Omicron variant, KP.3.3 and KS.1.1. Although it did not show immediate signs of increased danger compared to previous variants, its ability to multiply and spread quickly has raised concerns among public health experts.
Indeed, the XEC variant has spread rapidly across Europe and other regions of the world. In the United States, for example, it currently represents approximately 10.7% of samples sequenced in October 2024, with a notable increase in its frequency. The fact that this variant quickly adapted to different geographic contexts shows the flexibility of the virus and its ability to mutate to avoid the immune responses generated by previous infections.
Is this variant really harmless?
One of the main characteristics of this XEC variant is its transmissibility. Preliminary studies suggest that it has a higher reproduction rate than previous variants. This means it can spread more quickly within communities, potentially causing greater strain on health systems if its spread is not controlled.
However, although the XEC variant is more contagious, experts emphasize that the symptoms it causes do not differ significantly from those of previous variants. Thus, the most common symptoms of this strain remain fever, cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, fatigue and muscle pain.
Additionally, less common but still seen symptoms include loss of smell and taste, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea. These symptoms, although unusual in their combination, are not necessarily more serious than those associated with other Omicron variants or previous strains.
Symptoms in children: be vigilant
Although the XEC variant can affect people of all ages, children, especially those under the age of two, appear more vulnerable due to their still-developing immune systems.
In younger people, the variant may initially appear as a simple cold before transforming into a more serious form of respiratory infection, such as pneumonia or bronchitis.
Common symptoms in children infected with the XEC variant include high fever, chills, persistent cough, body aches, and gastrointestinal upset like diarrhea or vomiting. Additionally, inflammation of the ears and eyes has been noted in some young patients.
Although it is still too early to determine the exact extent of complications related to this variant in children, it is clear that those with weaker immune systems or pre-existing conditions may experience more severe symptoms.
However, experts note that while concerning, the XEC variant is not considered as dangerous as some of the earlier COVID-19 variants that caused more severe illness and even death in more people. .
The best key? Prevention
Faced with the rapid evolution of the XEC variant, health authorities around the world reiterate the importance of maintaining preventive measures to limit the transmission of the virus.
The vaccine remains one of the most effective protections against COVID-19, including against new variants. Vaccines have been updated to better target currently circulating strains, including the XEC variant, providing protection against severe forms of the disease.
In addition to vaccination, experts recommend continuing to adopt classic precautionary measures: wearing a mask in closed public spaces, maintaining good hand hygiene by washing them regularly, and ventilating enclosed spaces to allow renewal of the hand. 'air.
Vulnerable individuals, particularly the elderly or those suffering from chronic illnesses, must also remain particularly vigilant.
How to detect and manage this infection?
Testing also plays a crucial role in detecting and managing COVID-19 infections. Although many respiratory infections have similar symptoms, testing helps confirm whether a person is infected with COVID-19 or another viral illness, such as the flu.
Rapid home tests remain recommended, especially when symptoms appear, but they should be followed by additional tests in case of doubt or negative results, particularly if symptoms persist.
The XEC variant is further evidence that COVID-19 continues to evolve. Although it does not present additional risks compared to other recent variants, its ability to spread rapidly and to evade acquired immune defenses over time requires continued vigilance.
Prevention measures, including vaccination and testing, remain essential to avoid a new wave of contamination which could have a major impact on public health.
COVID-19, now a seasonal virus, will continue to be part of our daily lives, but with constant monitoring, adequate preparation and global cooperation, it is possible to limit its impact and protect the most vulnerable.
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