The XEC variant emerged in June 2024 as a new sub-variant of the Omicron lineage of COVID-19. This variant, which contains the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 mutations, has the capacity to spread faster than previous strains. Its symptoms are similar to those of COVID-19. This variant causes symptoms such as high fever, sore throat, cough, shortness of breath, loss of taste and smell, muscle aches, and fatigue. Personal protective measures should also be applied against this variant.
What is the COVID XEC variant?
The XEC variant of COVID-19, one of the sub-lineages of Omicron, was detected in 2024. This variant harbors the KS.1.1 and KP.3.3 mutations and has the potential to spread faster than previous strains. XEC Covid variantThe use of masks, hygiene and social distance are extremely important for protection against.
What are the symptoms of the XEC variant?
XEC variant symptoms, It is similar to the classic Covid-19 symptoms and can be summarized as follows:
- High fever: A temperature of 38°C or higher is usually the body’s response to infection.
- Cough: A dry cough is the most common, but some patients may also experience a productive cough.
- Sore throat: Irritation or pain in the throat often causes difficulty swallowing.
- Nasal congestion or runny nose: Nasal congestion or a watery runny nose can cause symptoms similar to a cold.
- Loss of smell and taste: Although it is one of the prominent symptoms of COVID-19, this symptom is less pronounced in some cases of XEC.
- Muscle and joint pain: Widespread body aches are accompanied by flu-like symptoms.
- Fatigue: A feeling of difficulty performing daily activities, extreme tiredness or exhaustion.
- Headache: It occurs in the form of migraine or tension headache.
- Diarrhea: Some people experience symptoms such as digestive problems, diarrhea or nausea.
- Shortness of breath: In severe cases, difficulty breathing may occur. This should be treated as an emergency.
How is XEC variant treated?
Treatment of XEC variantIt is estimated that the disease is applied in a similar way to previous COVID-19 variants. Although there is no specific treatment method at this point, we can say that antiviral drugs, palliative treatments and supportive care are at the forefront.
Accordingly, while rest and plenty of fluids are recommended for patients with mild symptoms, oxygen therapy and hospital care may be required in severe cases. During the treatment process, there are also protection methods such as compliance with hygiene rules and social distance.