COVID-19: What We Know About the Emerging XEC Variant Spreading in Europe

The Emergence of Variant XEC

XEC is the new Covid variant rapidly spreading across the United States and Europe, including Italy.
With the arrival of fall, positive cases are on the rise, prompting experts to closely monitor this recombinant lineage.

Current Epidemiological Situation in Italy

It’s important to note that the epidemiological situation in Italy, as well as globally, remains under control.
The latest report from the Ministry of Health confirmed a total of 11,164 new Covid cases between September 19 and 25.

This figure shows an increase compared to the previous week, with Covid-related fatalities tragically rising to 112, up from 93 during September 12-18.

Hospitalizations and Vaccination Recommendations

There has also been an uptick in medical area hospitalizations, with 3% of total available beds occupied, amounting to 1,885 patients.
Fortunately, intensive care unit admissions remain stable, primarily affecting those over 70, the most vulnerable demographic where vaccination with the updated formulation against recent variants is strongly advised.

During the same period, Covid cases linked to the new variant XEC accounted for 5% of recent infections.
Currently, the dominant variant in Italy is still KP.3.1.1, making up 68.1% of cases.
However, experts predict a possible shift in dominance this fall and winter.

What We Know About Variant XEC

Variant XEC was first identified in Germany last June, subsequently spreading rapidly throughout Europe, including Italy, and the United States.
As of now, it has been detected in 27 countries.

Experts agree that XEC will likely be the Covid variant we will confront in the coming months, though there is no immediate cause for alarm since it stems from Omicron.

For those who may not recall from the pandemic, Omicron was more contagious but less severe than Delta, helping us navigate through the pandemic alongside vaccine rollouts.

Symptoms and Severity of XEC

The symptoms associated with XEC are similar to those of other recent variants that have emerged, including cough, fever, sore throat, and loss of taste and smell.
Fortunately, the severity level is also comparable.

The ECDC noted, “We anticipate that XEC exhibits similar properties to the variants currently circulating, with no changes in infection severity or vaccine effectiveness against severe illness.”

In conclusion, while the symptoms of XEC are mild and its severity relatively low, its rapid transmission rate suggests it could soon become the dominant variant in Italy.

Continued Vigilance is Essential

However, this doesn’t mean we should let our guard down against Covid, as the virus can still be deadly; 100 deaths per week in Italy is significant.
The Ministry of Health continues to urge the most at-risk populations to get vaccinated.

For more information on Covid variants and vaccination, visit CDC Covid Variants.